SUMMER 2011 VOL. 4 ISSUE 2
LIFE UNIVERSITY’S ALUMNI MAGAZINE
PRESIDENT’S letter
Greetings Life Alumni! A few weeks ago, our Super League rugby team fought a fantastic final game against San Francisco at home, making our Running Eagles No. 2 in the nation. We couldn’t be prouder than if we’d taken first place (especially since the difference between national champs and runners up was a mere five points!) And so it is in the spirit of victory that I, and all of us here at LIFE, look forward to the remainder of the Summer quarter. In March, we celebrated another win: changing the campus culture from a commuter-based environment to that of a vitalistic campus village in keeping with our institutional values, as we cut the ribbon on our new Lyceum Park. Already, we’ve noticed more students, faculty and staff are wandering out of their cars and classrooms and into the sunshine to walk, talk and enjoy a lunch, a concert or just a quiet moment of reflection on grounds that were formerly just asphalt. It’s a beautiful sight to see, and I encourage you to do so if you haven’t already. Our Alumni Department recently coordinated a special VIP campus tour and lunch program just for visiting alums. Take advantage of it – and the gorgeous summer foliage – by scheduling your next visit in the coming weeks. If you joined us for our recent LIFEforce 1000 and LIFE Leadership Weekend, or our latest LifeSource Octagon conference, you’ll know these events were victories in their own rights.
Summer
2011
www.LIFE.edu
I encourage you to take a look at just some of the incredible research that’s going on constantly right here at LIFE.
Attendance was high, but not as high as the enthusiasm and excitement we shared at the arrival of a new crop of students, leaders and revolutionary ideas for Chiropractic and beyond. Speaking of revolutionary ideas, I encourage you to take a look at just some of the incredible research that’s going on constantly right here at LIFE. The “Research Update” is a regular feature of Your Extraordinary LIFE, and a great way to get a taste of the variety and caliber of research that our faculty, students and even staff are contributing to their fields. It’s no wonder we consistently match or exceed other chiropractic colleges when it comes to the number of poster and platform presentations accepted at the Association of Chiropractic Colleges Research Agenda Conference (ACC-RAC), one of the most prestigious research conferences in the profession. That’s yet another triumph for LIFE! So here’s to our next winning season, and to you and all our extraordinary LIFE family members who make each and every victory possible. Thank you. Yours in Chiropractic,
Guy F. Riekeman, D.C. President
2011 Your Extraordinary LIFE The Alumni Magazine of Life University
Contents
www.LIFE.edu
Summer
FEATURES
6 The Chiro from Cairo Meet Dr. Hussein Elsangak, Egyptian general practitioner-turned-LIFE professor
10 Playing Long Ball Meet Maurice Allen and his superhuman golf swing
12 Drs. Miranda and Greg Abbott Love and Chiropractic go hand-in-hand for these recent LIFE grads
18 Lyceum Park Opens to Fanfare NEW SOUTH PUBLISHING, INC.
LIFE UNIVERSITY
Jamie Ryan Publisher
Guy F. Riekeman, D.C. President
Larry Lebovitz President
Greg Harris Vice President for University Advancement
John Hanna Vice President
Craig Dekshenieks Director of Communications
Austin Holt Editor
Molly Dickinson Communications Coordinator
Michelle Schlundt Production Coordinator/ Circulation Manager
Leila Tatum Alumni Relations Manager
Garon Hart Graphic Designer
A jam-packed event weekend at the new $3.1 million park
DEPARTMENTS
2
Jen Lesshafft Alumni Relations Coordinator Guy D’Alema Senior Photographer
Around Campus: What’s New at LIFE? Dr. Brian McAulay honored by ACC; Student Advocacy Center opens; A smooth transition for Georgia business students; Socrates Café takes gold
4
Athletics Taking on the AT; Rugby caps great season; A new mascot
8 Your Extraordinary LIFE magazine is published three times a year by New South Publishing, 450 Northridge Parkway, Ste. 202, Atlanta, GA 30350. 770-650-1102; Fax: 770-650-2848. Postmaster: Send address changes to Your Extraordinary LIFE, 1269 Barclay Circle, Marietta, GA 30060-9854. It is the purpose of Your Extraordinary LIFE to promote the events, accomplishments, accolades and philosophies of Life University and its faculty, staff and students to current, prospective and former students, as well as the academic community at large. Life University is a private, nonprofit institution founded in 1974. For more information, write to Life University, 1269 Barclay Circle, Marietta, GA 30060, or visit LIFE.edu.
14
Undergraduate News What’s happening in the College of Undergraduate Studies
16
LIFE Research Update Helping kids catch up; Caring for future chiropractors; Dangerous beauty; Brain research
Material in this publication may not be reprinted without written permission from the editorial offices in Marietta. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2011 Life University. Printed in the USA.
20
Alumni Update Recruiting for LIFE; Real World: DCs; Accepting reservations for campus tours; Martinis and IMAX; Alumni on the road
Reader Comments See something you are excited about? How about something that makes your blood boil? Write in and tell us about it. Please submit all comments to Alumni@LIFE.edu.
Lasting Purpose LifeSource Octagon focuses on subluxation
22
Class Notes
24
Mark Your Calendar
2
What’s New at LIFE Executive Vice President doubly honored by the Association of Chiropractic Colleges
efforts in coordinating activities related to the Enrollment Task Force, Dr. McAulay was awarded a Presidential Service Citation for meritorious service to the Association of Chiropractic Colleges.” Brian McAulay, D.C. received two high Dr. McAulay has served as the honors from the Association of Chiroprovost of Life University since 2004, folpractic Colleges (ACC) during the lowing executive leadership positions at ACC/Research Agenda Conference Palmer Chiropractic University and Sher(ACC/RAC) held in Las man College of ChiroVegas, Nev. in March. practic. His impact on McAulay was elected chiropractic education to the ACC Executive over the past 14 years Board, and will serve a has been instrumental to two-year term as Secrethe growth of the profestary-Treasurer. The sion. These honors serve Board, which consists of as confirmation of his the presidents (or continuing dedication designees) of each chiand expertise in improvropractic program in the ing enrollment in chiroU.S., Canada and New practic institutions. Zealand, is tasked with “Our collective advancing chiropractic Dr. Brian McAulay efforts will lead ultilearning, pedagogy and mately to a better the profession by serving as a cooperaunderstanding of who decides to become tive international forum for the a chiropractor, who isn’t currently conexchange and generation of information, sidering Chiropractic as a career and experience and ideas surrounding chiroshould be and how to ‘get the word out’ practic education. McAulay will likely more effectively,” McAulay says. succeed the vice president and then McAulay’s appointment represents president in the next two elections, the first time a Life University represenaccording to ACC custom. tative has been selected as an Executive Additionally, Dr. McAulay was Board officer in the 23-year history of awarded a Presidential Service Citation the ACC. by outgoing ACC President and President of New York Chiropractic College, Frank Student Advocacy Center opens Nicchi, D.C. As part of our continued efforts to Says Dr. Nicchi, “Dr. McAulay serves transform campus into a student-cenas Chair of the ACC Enrollment Task tered and service-based environment, Force, whose strategic charge was to Life University will soon debut the new investigate how member institutions Student Advocacy Center. The Center is might work together to increase the designed to be a “one-stop shop” for prospective chiropractic student student services, where students can applicant pool. In view of his exceptional
Summer
2011
www.LIFE.edu
work directly with a staff of Student Advocates to get help, find answers and resolve issues. From registration, financial aid and student account questions to adding/dropping classes, changing programs or requesting or reviewing transcripts, the Student Advocacy Center provides a single, central location where students and staff can come together to find solutions. As of June 9, all of Student Administrative Services – which includes financial aid, the registrar and student Accounts – are “under construction” as we make way for the new Center, set to be fully operational by July 20. “The Student Advocacy Center will help us to better serve our students by giving them faster, easier access to the support they need to succeed,” says Marc Schneider, executive director of student services. “We are excited to finally see the Center up and running, because it is going to make a huge difference in the lives of our students and in the university experience as a whole.”
A smoother transition for Georgia business students Life University and the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) have signed an Articulation Agreement which will allow qualified students matriculating at accredited TCSG schools to easily transition into a bachelor’s degree program in either Business Administration (B.B.A.) or Computer Information Management (B.S.-C.I.M.) at Life University. Students completing approved TCSG courses with an overall GPA of 2.8 will automatically qualify as having completed those articulated courses toward a degree from Life University. This will
AROUND campus
3
LIFE’s Socrates Café goes green, takes gold
Representatives for LIFE and TCSG signed the Articulation Agreement into effect on March 22, 2011.
expedite the rate at which qualifying students can earn both an associate degree and a bachelor’s degree from accredited local schools or transfer from an associate program directly into a bachelor’s. Says Dr. Frances Roberson, Chair of the Life University Business Department, a member of the team who coordinated and approved the agreement, “This will allow more students to learn about the opportunities at LIFE and to enhance instructional options for them. It will also help the citizens of Georgia to become better candidates for business employment in a difficult economy.” TCSG Commissioner Ron Jackson, LIFE Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. Brian McAulay, LIFE Dean of Undergraduate Studies Dr. Michael Smith, Dr. Frances Roberson, and Coordinator of Articulation Agreements Dr. Gary Sullenger, were on hand to witness the official signing of the agreement at TCSG headquarters in Atlanta on March 22. The agreement went into effect immediately.
Life University’s new campus dining facility, the Socrates Café, was recently awarded Gold-Level LEED Certification, making it the second certified green building on LIFE’s campus (the LIFE Village Retreat, the first LEED Gold-Level certified, stick-built student housing in the country, opened in 2009). In keeping with LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) green building standards, the Café demonstrates sustainable use of construction materials, water and energy consumption during operation, reduced carbon output, and green waste management. In addition, Socrates Café is managed by Bon Appétit Management Company, which has won numerous industry awards for its commitment to sustainable food services. The Café sources local and organic produce, antibiotic- and hormone-free meats whenever possible, offers daily vegetarian and vegan options including a full salad bar, and uses all-compostable dining ware. Gold is the second-highest rating conferred by LEED, the authority in green building certification. The recent achievement reflects a commitment made by Life University in 2007, when LIFE President Dr. Guy Riekeman signed on as a founding member of the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC), an effort by U.S. higher learning institutions to create sustainable campuses. “LEED certification, particularly at the gold level, is a major achievement,” says Shannan George, sustainability coordinator for LIFE. “Life University set out to create the Socrates Café as as eco-friendly facility that reflects our values as an institution, and this certification proves that we succeeded, not only by our standards, but by some of the highest standards in green building.” In the future, LIFE aims to have all of its new construction projects LEED-certified at the Silver Level or above.
Socrates Café
www.LIFE.edu
Summer
2011
4
What’s New at Life University student to hike from Georgia to Maine On March 24, Melissa Newman, 26, a Sport Health Science graduate student at Life University, embarked on a longtime dream to hike the Appalachian Trail – all 2,179 miles of it. “I’ve wanted to hike this trail for a long time,” says Newman, “and I feel like this is my chance. I’ve made arrangements with my registrar, and I am taking a temporary hiatus in order to fulfill this dream. I leave the day after my last final exam.” Not only does Newman plan to complete the hike, she plans to do it in record time. “Most people take 5-6 months to complete this journey, but my goal is to finish it in three.” That means she’ll need to average 30 miles a day. Newman will be taking on the AT, as it is colloquially known, completely alone. Two of her LIFE professors are on her contact list, and friends and family will be able to receive updates on Newman’s location and progress via a SPOT GPS tracking system. “I will carry everything I need for this journey on my back, and I will sleep outside, using a tent,” she adds. “I will collect and purify my own water from streams and nearby water sources, and I will resupply my food about once a week.” A couple thousand people attempt to hike this trail every year, but only 20-25 percent of through-hikers are successful. “Most people drop out for whatever reason and never make it to [Mount] Katahdin, but I’m part of that 20-25 percent. I’m going all the way. Rain or shine, whatever may come, I’ll get there. No rain, no pain, no Maine!” Follow Melissa on her Journey at Share.FindMeSpot.com.
Summer
2011
www.LIFE.edu
LIFE rugby teams cap great seasons Both of Life University’s rugby teams finished their respective seasons ranked in the top five nationally. Our all-undergraduate team competed in the inaugural season of the Rugby College Premier Division featuring some of the most prestigious and renowned colleges in the country. In the regular season, LIFE destroyed Tennessee, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, LSU and Texas A&M, earning a berth in the National Championship Tournament. In the quarterfinals, LIFE traveled to Berkeley, California to take on the No. 1 ranked perennial powerhouse University of California. Although we came up a bit short on the final scoreboard, we gave the older and more experienced Cal team all they could handle. LIFE ranked fourth in the final standings, and with a team made up LIFE Rugby almost entirely of freshmen and sophomores, you can bet that Cal has not heard the last of the Running Eagles! Six LIFE ruggers were named to the Mid-South All-Conference team, and sophomore Cam Dolan was named co-Player of the Year in the conference. The LIFE Rugby Super League team finished the regular season undefeated and advanced all the way to the National Championship final game, which they hosted on campus in Marietta. In front of a raucous crowd of students, staff, alumni and friends numbering in the neighborhood of 2,000, we took on San Francisco Golden Gate (SFGG), a finalist each of the past three years. Hoping the 90-degree Georgia heat would wilt the Bay Area opponents, LIFE pushed it all the way to the final whistle before falling 20-15. The Running Eagles finished second in the final rankings, capping another stellar season in the Rugby Super League, the highest level of rugby in the country.
New mascot unveiled After a long and storied career, Doc the Running Eagle, Life University’s mascot, decided to retire and head to his aerie in the mountains. The original Doc presided over 23 national championships in basketball, rugby, hockey and track & field, and felt it was time to pass the torch to a younger member of the “New Doc” convocation. So, at the opening of Lyceum Park in April, LIFE welcomed “New Doc” to the LIFE family. New Doc plans to unveil his Facebook page later this summer, so be sure to “friend” him and keep up with his videos on LIFE’s YouTube channel, “LifeatLife.”
6
FACULTY PROFILE
Chiro from Cairo BY JEN LESSHAFFT
When asked about the best decision he’s ever made,Dr. Hussein Elsangak’s response is clear and simple: to become a chiropractor. Elsangak, a G.P. turned D.C., realized early in his professional life that working in traditional medicine was not the career for him. A native of Egypt, he earned his first doctorate from Alazhar University Medical School in Cairo in 1982. He practiced medicine there as a general practitioner (internist) for four years. Although he enjoyed what he did, he was constantly fighting an internal battle, wanting to find alternatives to the medications he was prescribing to his patients every day. “No matter how many patients I saw, there were always five groups of medication that I would prescribe all day long: muscle relaxants, pain killers, antibiotics, antiinflammatories and vitamins,” said Elsangak. “I knew there had to be something better.” Then he discovered Chiropractic. Chiropractic was the answer to all of his conflicting questions about patient management. He whole-heartedly identified with the “Big Idea” behind Chiropractic: that the body is a self-developing, self-healing, self-maintaining organism that requires not interference, but the removal of it, to reach its optimal function and potential. “When I was introduced to the role of Chiropractic and the premise that the body is a self-healing organism, I was completely convinced that this is the way I wanted to serve my patients,” said Elsangak. “The idea that Chiropractic restores and maintains our health by adjusting the spine and removing areas of subluxation or spinal dysfunction, allowing the body to express its recuperative power to its max, is exactly what I was looking for to help my patients. It was in line with my philosophy and belief on how to live a healthy life.” In 1986, Dr. Elsangak left Egypt for the United States. He felt that Life University offered one of the most impressive packages in chiropractic education, with strong emphasis on the philosophy, science and art of Chiropractic. He also felt that the energy and enthusiasm from the LIFE community – whether from students, faculty or the administration – aligned with the school’s goal and mission to become the ultimate destination for wellness education. His passion for teaching and the chiropractic profession started early. In addition to being a full-time student in the Doctor of Chiropractic program, Dr. Elsangak worked as a lab assistant on campus. He enjoyed teaching so much that before completing and graduating from the program in 1989, he was offered a faculty teaching position at LIFE. Because of his medical background, he was able to be both a professor and a student at the same time. In October 1993, he joined the Anglo European College of Chiropractic in England as clinic faculty and attained his Certified Chiropractic Sports Dr. Elsangak as LIFE professor
7
How Dr. Hussein Elsangak transformed from general practitioner in Egypt to Chiropractic student and professor at LIFE
Physician (CCSP) diplomate while there. His love for LIFE lead him back to Marietta, Ga. in October 1995, where he became the Department Head of Clinical Proficiency, Division Chair of Clinical Sciences and the Assistant to the Dean for Program Development. He currently teaches fourth quarter Physical Exam, as well as tenth quarter Clinical Education courses. “I enjoy being in the classroom. I love interacting with students and seeing them transform from new students to successful doctors.” He extends his love for teaching to fellow DCs, teaching continuing education classes on topics such as anti-aging, wellness and clinical chiropractic risk management. Dr. Elsangak will be teaching these courses at LIFE’s upcoming Fall CE event, Sept. 28-Oct. 2. When he’s not in the classroom, Dr. Elsangak can be found either in LIFE’s Wellness Center or on the soccer field. He is an avid Zumba enthusiast, rarely ever missing the LIFE studenttaught, Latin-inspired dance fitness class. His real passion however, other than Chiropractic, is soccer. Dr. Elsangak has built several soccer teams at LIFE and is in the process of developing both men’s and women’s soccer clubs. Dr. Elsangak has been a part of the LIFE community for almost 23 years. Some of his best memories from his time here are moments from daily life with his fellow students, many of whom have become lifelong friends. In fact, he is the faculty member most requested by alumni at regional events. “I have so many wonderful memories from my time here at LIFE. One of my best memories was crossing the stage at graduation in front of my mentors in medicine — some of the biggest figures in Egyptian Healthcare — who came to acknowledge and celebrate this achievement with me,” said Elsangak. “From then on there are about 8,000 best memories I have, since this is approximately the number of students I have seen come through the Chiropractic program through my 23 years at LIFE.” Dr. Elsangak encourages his fellow LIFE alumni to come visit the campus. Whether it’s been two years or 20, he guarantees you’ll be amazed by the transformation. “Please come back and visit us! I promise you’ll be proud of your alma mater,” he says. “I am amazed by the achievements of Life University and I would like to share it with you as an alumnus and friend. So please, mark your calendar for sometime in the next year. I give you a personal promise that you will not regret it.” Elsangak as LIFE student
Summer
2011
8
LASTING PURPOSE
LifeSource Octagon focuses investigation on “subluxation,” sets goals for 2012 BY STEVEN BOLLES, D.C.
The LifeSource Octagon held its third annual event April 14-16, 2011 on the campus of Life University. The Octagon has been established to consider important questions that relate to human existence, especially as they apply to LIFE’s Eight Core Proficiencies.
The initial effort in 2009 explored the resurgent academic interest in Vitalism, and brought together health professionals from all over the world to discuss what their professions’ ‘touchpoints’ were with vitalistic philosophy. From a history of thousands of years of Ayurvedic medicine to relative ‘newcomers’ such as Traditional Chinese Medicine, homeopathy, Chiropractic and others, we sought to discover how much we actually have in common in the ways many professions look at health, disease and the innate intelligence that drives growth, adaptation and healing. In 2010, a series of working summits took place that explored how to operationalize some of the concepts of Vitalism; to make
them more definable and distinguishable.This effort took another step forward in this year’s 2011 gathering, as a very diverse panel sought to consider the range of scientific paradigms that are involved with how the concept of chiropractic subluxation is identified, considered, researched and treated. From this effort came a model of very focused investigation into several areas that will be accomplished in the coming year. In 2012, the Octagon’s conference will consider how to create a vitalistic health model for today’s “Internet Generation,” the group of millennials who, LIFE’s initial research efforts suggest, are on track to be the hosts of a number of lifestyle-related chronic diseases. What haven’t we learned from current health promotion efforts? What might a vitalistic model to address this look like? Please visit LIFE.edu/Octagon and Facebook for more information about the Octagon’s past efforts and those to come in the future.
Dr. Guy Riekeman
Dr. Gerry Clum (speaking) and the LifeSource Octagon panel of experts addressed various questions surrounding “subluxation.”
Summer
2011
www.LIFE.edu
10
STUDENTPROFILE
Playing Long Ball BY CRAIG DEKSHENIEKS
Golf and Chiropractic were made for each other. A chiropractor can make an entire living from providing care to golfers. After all, golf requires an understanding of the biomechanics of the swing, the physical capacity to create muscle memory and an ability to torque the spine without injury.
Maurice Allen
Golf is also a game that allows one to channel all six dimensions of health, as described in LIFE’s Wellness Portfolio: Physical – You swing a golf club more than 100 times and can walk up to six miles during an average round of golf. Intellectual – It requires some thinking to navigate over, around and through the various hazards on a standard golf course. Emotional – It can be one of the most frustrating and exhilarating four hours you’ll ever spend, and can even cause a grown man to cry. Social – You usually play golf with friends or other companions. Environmental – You play outdoors amid trees, grass, water, sand, fresh air and more. Spiritual – Any serious golfer will tell you that playing golf is uplifting to your soul, regardless of your final score. There are also the elements of time, effort and cost. Golfers spend
11
years fine-tuning a swing and spending thousands of dollars on equipment and lessons. Despite the time and the cost, golfers are always tinkering and trying in vain to hit the ball farther. So if you’re a golfer, when you meet Maurice Allen, he’ll really tick you off. Maurice Allen is a chiropractic student at Life University. He hails from Orlando, went to school in Tallahassee and never played golf until about a year ago. And Allen hits the golf ball literally more than a quarter of a mile. “My dad played when I was growing up, but I never competed and never owned golf clubs,” says Allen. He started playing only because he lost a bet. “I was helping a friend of mine named Steve Harrison organize a golf event, and he bet me I couldn’t hit the ball very far.” So, Allen pulled out a seven iron and proceeded to hit the ball 257 yards. From that first shot, a phenomenon was born. With encouragement from his friends, and a jolt of selfconfidence, Allen started practicing with a driver, the club that allows most golfers to hit the ball the farthest. A few tweaks here, a change in alignment there, regular chiropractic adjustments from Dr. John Downes, director of the Life University Sport Science Institute (LUSSI), and Allen was off and swinging. Allen started competing in local long drive events, mostly for fun and practice, and was blowing the competition away. As local interest in him grew, he started receiving attention from golf equipment manufacturers who were interested in sponsoring Allen to go on tour and compete in the professional long driver circuit of tournaments all over the country. But the one thing that catapulted him into superstardom happened in January of this year at the PGA Merchandise Show, an annual trade show for golf manufacturers. Allen stepped into a booth that contained a swing training system called the Momentus® Speed Whoosh. The training system measures how fast one swings a club because of a very basic physics equation: the higher the velocity of the club head, the farther the ball travels. Maurice Allen set the world record, recording the highest ever swing speed of 161 mph. The average PGA Tour player generates a swing speed in the neighborhood of 110 mph. The new record caught many people’s attention because the previous record of 159 mph was set by Joe Miller, the 2010 World Long Drive Champion. Before Miller, the record of 157 mph
was held by Jamie Sadlowski, the 2008 and 2009 World Long Drive Champion. Could Maurice Allen be next? He thinks he can. Allen is now on the long driving tour, competing against other golfers who can also consistently hit the ball more than 400 yards, trying to qualify for the 2011 ReMax World Long Drive Championships, which will take place in November in Mesquite, Nev. With his list of accolades, it was only a matter of time before Allen qualified. Sure enough, in April at the Texas Shootout (only his third event on the tour), Allen earned his qualification. In the event, he recorded a drive of 428 yards. Says Allen, “I actually hit one 454 yards, but it came to rest a few inches out of bounds, so it didn’t count.” By finishing in fifth place, Allen is now officially in the ReMax Long Drive World Championships. But that doesn’t mean he will sit back and relax until then. “I’m happy, but not content. I can hit it farther…and I will,” says the confident, yet humble Allen. This summer, Allen will be competing in Nebraska, Tennessee, South Carolina and even Sweden. In between events and classes at Life University, one can regularly find him at the on-campus Wellness Center, lifting weights, increasing stamina and flexibility, and maintaining a regimen specifically designed by the professional team in the Life University Sport Science Institute (LUSSI), a state-of-the-art facility designed to help athletes reach optimum performance. Allen continues to get attention. In May, the local NBC affiliate in Atlanta, 11Alive, ran a news segment about him. A radio station in Atlanta, Sports Radio 680 AM, had him on the air as a guest during a weekly golf show. And African American Golfer’s Digest did a feature on Allen in its Winter/Spring 2011 edition. Where Allen’s story ends is still to be determined. Beyond his innate talent, he is a friendly and affable young man who represents himself and Life University well. He is also a huge proponent of Chiropractic, crediting its power for propelling him to reach his potential as a golfer and as a human being. Sure, it might tick you off that he can hit the golf ball farther than you can, but he’s still a guy you want to root for. Be sure to watch Allen on television in November when he competes in the ReMax Long Drive World Championships, as the event is broadcast live on ESPN. You can keep up with Allen and his progress by logging onto his website at www.MauriceAllenLongDrive.com.
www.LIFE.edu
Summer
2011
12
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Drs. Miranda &Greg Abbott For these recent LIFE grads, love and a passion for Chiropractic go hand-in-hand.
13
BY AUSTIN HOLT
When you spend an amount of time immersed in a community, the people you meet largely determine your experiences. And if you’ve spent any time at LIFE over that last several years, you’ve almost certainly run into Drs. Greg and Miranda Abbott at one time or another. It’s really a cute story, but one that is not entirely unheard of in the world of Chiropractic. In 2007, Miranda had wrapped up her course load in her home state at the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire. Her studies were already headed in the right direction—she had majored in business administration with a minor in pre-chiropractic studies—so it was simply a matter of choosing where she wanted to go to seal the deal. “When you’re wrapping up 14 quarters [of chiropractic school], you look back and say, ‘What could I have done differently?’” Miranda says. “Overall, picking this school was the best decision I ever could have made. It’s just like a big family at LIFE, and I was honored to be a part of it.” So when Miranda arrived, she dove in. A gifted and motivated speaker, she quickly joined Student Ambassadors, where as she describes it, she “became more aware of what was happening on campus.” “Being a part of student ambassadors helped us, and I could better serve people in that community because I could bring concerns up to [LIFE President] Dr. Riekeman and to the administration,” she continues. “Having this one-on-one time with the people who run the school really created this down-to-earth environment that I really enjoyed.”
Now let’s shift gears for a moment, to a sports-addicted high school freshman with a sports injury—one that was alleviated by chiropractic care. It was at this juncture that Greg Abbott knew what he wanted to do with his life. So Greg blasted through college at North Carolina’s Elon University, where he played Division I football and baseball while hammering out a degree in exercise science. Never forgetting the benefits he reaped from Chiropractic, Greg took his skills to LIFE. “I never even saw the campus before I went there, but it was between Palmer and LIFE, and it was a no-brainer for me,” Greg recalls. “There were just so many things going on at the school; Dr. Riekeman was fabulous; there are just so many different people from so many different walks of life and it created a very diverse population.” It’s easy to guess what happens next. On the first day of class during their first quarters, Greg noticed a woman at the front of the class giving an announce-
ment. “It was like, ‘Wow,’ ” Greg recalls with a chuckle. “Miranda caught my attention, and from that point, I was intrigued by her. I wanted to get to know her better. I knew that she wouldn’t put up with my stuff every now and then, so I was going to have to work for it. I like that about her.” The happy couple dated for seven months, were engaged for seven more, and were married in 2009. Together, they continued their studies at LIFE, working toward becoming DCs. They made lifelong friends, received advice from mentors, made countless valuable connections, and upon their graduation earlier this year, they set their long-term goals in motion. Today, the young couple is putting the finishing touches on Abbott Family Chiropractic in Appleton, Wisconsin, where they will be able to live out their passion of helping families and children through chiropractic care, just as they were helped when they were younger.
www.LIFE.edu
Summer
2011
UNDERGRADUATE NEWS
14
BY LEILA TATUM
Dr. Peggy Samples: Psyching you up to your full potential Many people know that Life University offers undergraduate degrees. As a matter of fact, no one seems surprised that there is a Nutrition program, a Biology program, an Athletic Training program or even a Business program. Perhaps the least known program, however, is Psychology. Part of the School of General Education and Transitional Studies, the Psychology program includes degrees in Coaching Psychology, Biopsychology and Life Coaching. Dr. Peggy Samples, head of the General Education Department, helped to create the Psychology program at LIFE. Her plan was to take a holistic, wellrounded approach to psychology. To that end, she designed the program based on the goal of preventing dysfunction. Dr. Samples, who received her B.S. in psychology from the University of South Florida and her M.S. and Ph.D in social psychology from the University of Georgia, believes that good emotional, mental and social health are important factors that help individuals reach their optimal potential. That same philosophy also guides Samples’ direction of the Psychology program itself. There are some exciting changes on the horizon, all intended to help the program realize its optimal potential as a unique, vitalisticbased positive psychology degree. Says Samples, “The Psychology program will grow rapidly as a number of initiatives and changes occur to further our vision, including the implementation of a Master of Arts in Clinical Health Psychology with an emphasis on preventive health and personal well-being. For nontraditional students, we will offer a Life Coaching Certificate, a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with an option of a Life Coaching or a Clinical Track, as well as an online Biopsychology degree completion program for practicing chiropractors who want to better prepare themselves for their lives and careers.” The online Biopsychology program is especially great news for many individuals who graduated from chiropractic schools before the last decade, when a Bachelor’s degree was not yet required for licensing. Additional options are also being considered for non-traditional students, such as a mixture of night and online classes for upperclassmen, taken with a cohort. Dr. Peggy Samples
Summer
2011
www.LIFE.edu
The School of Business and Entrepreneurship An articulation agreement for the Bachelor of Business Administration and the Computer Information Management programs between Life University and the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) was signed on March 21, 2011. Students attending and completing courses in Business and Computer Information programs at any of the 27 technical colleges across the state may receive articulated credit for those courses toward a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or Computer Information Management at Life University. There are more than one hundred thousand students in the Technical College System. A plan for communicating and marketing the agreement is being developed with Dr. Gary Sullenger, coordinator of articulation for LIFE.
The School of Business and Entrepreneurship kicked off its Speakers Program this past winter quarter. The sessions are held from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for all students. Some of the speakers featured so far were Kia Thomas and Brian Allen from Wells Fargo, who presented information on credit and credit scores; Beth Herman, regional manager for Manpower International, who provided an update on the employment situation in Georgia, the importance of networking and how to successfully achieve results; Ty Woods (’10) who shared information on tax credits for students as well as successful strategies for obtaining educational grants and scholarships; Jeff Sheehan on social media; Ronna Woodruff and Christopher Yarbrough, Attorneys at Law, on consumer bankruptcy,
15
the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act and creditor lawsuits; and Kimberly Grey Fess and Keryl Oliver of Hawthorne Visual Communications on skillful presenting. The sessions are taped by Gil Braum, intern, so they may be available to students who cannot attend.
Dr. Frances Roberson, Business Department chair, is chairing the Partners Council, a group that unites non-profit and community service agencies to help coordinate the services of workforce-developing organizations. Dr. George Teston will receive the
There was high student attendance for the second meeting of the School of Business and Entrepreneurship Investment Club, conducted by Jim Russell of the Allegiance Advantage Group. Students from all programs are invited to these sessions.
“Most Influential Professor” award during graduation ceremonies this spring. He was chosen for this honor by graduating seniors.
Life University was an exhibitor at Chattahoochee Technical College’s Career Fair in May.
The School of Business and Entrepreneurship began a Toastmaster’s Program spring quarter, open to all Life University students.
Wanda Benjamin, assistant professor of the Business and C.I.M. Department, ran in and completed the Georgia Half Marathon sponsored by Publix in March.
The School of Business and Entrepreneurship is researching the possibility of an Entrepreneurial Specialization and an International Specialization. A class in the use of social media in marketing one’s business is being considered for possible inclusion. This course would enhance curricular options for students in the B.B.A. and the C.I.M. programs. A second new course, entitled C# Programming, was also recently added, and will be offered for the first time this spring quarter.
Dr. Sudhanva Char and Dr. Ron Kath were recently published in “The American Chiropractor” journal for an article entitled “How an Accounting Course Could Help Chiropractors.”
Department of General Education and Transitional Studies Dr. Michael Montgomery, professor of English, has recently had several poems published, as well as five pieces of fiction and several essays. Published works include an essay, “Dreamblog,” and books Antigravitas and Dream Koans.
Daisy Buckner of the General Education Department, has published a second book titled Wondrous Things, and was interviewed on Blog Talk Radio. Dr. Cherry Collier presented a paper titled “Accommodating for Learning Styles in Classroom Differentiation” at the McGraw-Hill Irwin sponsored Teaching Economics Conference at the Robert Morris University in Pittsburgh. Natural Sciences hired two full-time Chemistry faculty – Deidre Meiggs, Ph.D. and Robin Siebert, Ph.D. These are replacement positions. Meiggs has expertise in the field of Environmental Sciences, which LIFE hopes to incorporate into our curriculum in the near future.
Dr. Brian McAulay, LIFE’s executive vice president and provost, gave a presentation to Marietta Kiwanis about Life University, its programs (including the School of Business and Entrepreneurship), Socrates Café, LIFE’s campus grounds, our athletic program, etc.—with high interest from leaders in the Cobb County community.
The Nutrition Department received 51 applications for the 16 positions available in the 2011-2012 Dietetic Internship Program.
Department of Nutrition and Dietetics Dr. Steven Mirtschink, director of outreach clinics, has been working with Jaleh Dehpahlavan, Nutrition Department chair, to create a system for the senior nutrition/dietetic students of the NTR 417 Community Field Experience course. The goal is to allow students to provide program-taught services to clients at Turner Chapel and Marble Mill Outreach Clinics.
The CUS offered 17 undergraduate Exercise Science courses for the winter quarter. Amanda Timberlake, M.S., R.D., and associate professor of Sport Health Science, presented at the Southeast American College of Sports Medicine’s regional meeting. The title of her presentation was “Complementary and Alternative Medicine – Does it Belong in the Fitness Profession?”
www.LIFE.edu
Summer
2011
16
LIFE research update BY MOLLY DICKINSON
From neurological studies, to student health insurance surveys, to environmental research on invasive plants and pathogens, research conducted recently by faculty and students at Life University covers a broad range of subjects and applications. Read on to learn more about what LIFE is discovering.
Chiropractic care can help kids catch up Laura Hanson, D.C.’s poster presentation titled “Improvement Following Chiropractic Management of a Child with Progressive Developmental Delay” was accepted at the International Association of Functional Neurology and Rehabilitation (IAFNR) Annual Conference, held in Orlando, Fla. May 11-15. Hanson, a LIFE professor and Diplomate in Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics (DICCP) instructor, noted marked improvement in her three-year-old male patient following chiropractic care. “We are providing stimulation in the correct form to help his brain develop integration and timing between both hemispheres,” says Hanson. “We have educated the family on nutritional changes and supplementation for support in changing the child’s biochemistry. His home exercises are promoting better oxygen perfusion through play aerobically. This is wholebody care addressing the cause of subluxation stress chemically, mechanically and emotionally.” Under Hanson’s care, the patient – who presented with an array of developmental and other conditions, including language and motor development delays – displayed better sensory motor integration, gross and fine motor skills, spatial orientation, contextual speech, rhythmic timing and play. “My primary reason for coming into academia was to contribute to research in the study of pediatric Chiropractic,” Hanson adds. “I want to help the profession demonstrate quantifiable evidence that Chiropractic can help with cases such as progressive developmental delay, not just soreness and pain.”
Summer
2011
www.LIFE.edu
Caring for future chiropractors Marni Capes, D.C. and Laura Huber, D.C. recently investigated the impact of health care insurance and health care costs on students attending chiropractic institutions. Their survey and the resulting study, “The Status of Health Insurance for Students Enrolled in a Chiropractic Curriculum,” revealed that almost half of D.C. students reporting did not have health insurance coverage, and a third did not seek medical care following an injury or illness, due to financial cost. Capes and Huber, both professors in the D.C. program at Life University, concluded that, “It would benefit our profession to tend to our young professionals enrolled in chiropractic schools. This ensures that graduates matriculate healthy and prepared to care for future generations.” They also proposed that one way in which the profession could explore caring for its future chiropractors, might be for various chiropractic organizations to band together and create a mutually beneficial insurance plan to cover enrolled D.C. students.
17
Dangerous beauty Dr. Humberto Dutra, a biology professor at LIFE, had his research on invasive shrub honeysuckle and increased mice and deer populations published by Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences in 2010. Says Dutra, “The significance of this is that invasive plants can affect disease vectors, as
both deer and mice carry pathogens that could be transmitted to humans via ticks.” Dutra’s research proves that invasive plants like the shrub honeysuckle – a beautiful plant with sweet-smelling blossoms – are not only detrimental to the health of native plant species, but may also negatively affect the health of humans. “I was surprised to find out that areas infested with this invasive plant are like a green desert in which you have lots of shrubs in the understory of the forest but, in fact, it is a monoculture of the invasive honeysuckle. It is beautiful to look at, but a closer scientific examination shows that native plants are disappearing because of the invasions.”
D.C. student has research on the brain Ben Behrendt, a 10th quarter D.C. student, also presented at the IAFNR 2011 Conference with a poster display of his recent case study on a patient with Multi-System Atrophy (MSA) undergoing wholebody rotation on the GyroStim. MSA is a condition in which multiple brain areas begin to degenerate, and the GyroStim, one of only five such devices in the world (the one currently at LIFE was consigned by Dr. Fredrick Carrick of the Carrick Institute) is a multi-axis rotating chair designed to stimulate the vestibular system and other areas of the brain. Behrendt’s case study details the significant improvements the patient experienced following GyroStim therapy as well as other prescribed care. “[The patient’s] uniquely prescribed therapy has completely turned his life around and he is now able to function in society at a much higher degree,” says Behrendt. “He went from hardly making it through the day at age 35, to being able to function at a more normal pace.” Behrendt is also working on another study funded by Life University’s Research Track grant. “Long-axial Thoracic Manipulation to the Thoracic Ribcage: Its Relationship to Balance, Respiratory Mechanics and Oxygen,” will study the use of chiropractic techniques on the body’s ability to increase oxygen to the brain and related affects on neural pathways influencing balance. According to Behrendt, “Outcomes of this study may offer insight into ways we can further reduce falls in our society, increase or return functionality to individuals or offer an approach to further enhance an adjustment and/or care that a chiropractor can give to [his or her] patients. “I have learned so much from my projects and know I will be a better healthcare professional because of them,” Behrendt adds. “I am excited to use the information gathered through this research to continue to contribute to Healthcare and our profession.”
www.LIFE.edu
Summer
2011
18
FEATURE ARTICLE
Lyceum Park Opens to Fanfare BY MOLLY DICKINSON
On April 14, Life University kicked off a jam-packed event weekend with the grand opening of its new, $3.1 million addition – Lyceum Park. LIFE Chairman of the Board Shawn Ferguson, D.C. made opening comments before LIFE President Guy Riekeman, D.C. and Standard Process, Inc. President Charlie C. DuBois addressed the crowd. Other dignitaries present included the
Summer
2011
www.LIFE.edu
LIFE Board of Trustees and executives from both LIFE and Standard Process. Following DuBois’ address, the group led a ribbon-cutting celebrating the Park’s opening and the dedication of the Standard Process Amphitheater. The amphitheater is named for Standard Process in appreciation of its $500,000 campaign pledge to support the creation of the William M. Harris Center for Clinical Education. The Center, a clinical training and assessment facility, will be housed in what is now the administration building, perched atop the hill crowning Lyceum Park. Hundreds of students, faculty, staff and guests congregated along the risers
built into the natural slope of the outdoor amphitheater to enjoy a barbeque lunch, live music from student band Insidious Interference and some special guests, including LIFE’s rejuvenated mascot (“New Doc”), human statuary and a towering, stilt-legged “tree-man.” During his address, Dr. Riekeman stressed his hopes that the community would appreciate not just the beauty of the space, but the value and significance of what is already becoming the nerve center for culture on campus. “This isn’t about being green,” he said, referring to the transformation of the former parking lot into a lushly landscaped multi-use reflection and gathering space. “It’s about a culture change.”
19
Standard Process, Inc. partners with LIFE $500,000 will help fund new clinical education center BY CRAIG DEKSHENIEKS
“This isn’t about being green. It’s about a culture change.” —LIFE President Guy Riekeman, D.C.
Life University is pleased to announce that it has received a commitment of $500,000 from Standard Process, Inc, a world leader in whole food supplements. This contribution will support a renovation project that will create the William M. Harris Center for Clinical Education. The Center is the main construction project within The Exceptional Experience, the second phase of LIFE’s capital campaign. Standard Process’s investment is part of a new partnership that focuses on collaborative work in three main areas: research projects will include studies in the use of organic products to improve health; educational programs will promote the benefits of using whole foods; and nutrition analysis will measure the correlation between whole foods and peak performance. Says LIFE President Guy Riekeman, “We are pleased that Standard Process has agreed to invest in LIFE’s students and collaborate with the very talented LIFE community. Our students will benefit greatly from the education they’ll receive within the Harris Center, once opened, and our work in organic and whole food nutrition will provide valuable information and learning opportunities for exercise science, sport health science, nutrition and dietetic students.” To recognize the partnership and investment, LIFE officially dedicated the outdoor amphitheater in the University’s new Lyceum Park, the “Standard Process Amphitheater,” on April 14 at the grand opening ceremony and ribbon-cutting. “We’re honored that Standard Process can play a meaningful role in the creation of the William M. Harris Center for Clinical Education,” says Charlie C. DuBois, Standard Process President. “It’s great that the University is committed to expanding its education in the areas of wellness and nutrition. We view these as cornerstones of chiropractic care.”
www.LIFE.edu
Summer
2011
20
ALUMNI UPDATE BY LEILA TATUM
Recruiting for Life University In March, Dr. Stuart Katzen (’97), VP of the LIFE Alumni Association, spoke to the Pre-Med Club at Villanova University in Pennsylvania about pursuing a career in Chiropractic. He also spoke to about 140 students in an Introduction to Health Sciences class at Pennsylvania’s Temple University in April. His Temple visit went so well that he has been invited to come back every semester. During his talks, Katzen invites students to come shadow him at his practice to get a firsthand look at what it is like to be a chiropractor. Two Temple students recently took him up on his offer, and both now plan to attend Life University.
Real World: DCs Every quarter, the LIFE Alumni Association will invite a local chiropractor to host an informational, meet-and-greet session for students in his or her practice, called The Real World: DCs (RW). The first event took place Thursday, April 7 in the office of alumnus and Alumni
they want to pursue for their future careers. We look forward to continuing the RW series each quarter. “It’s a great opportunity for chiropractic students to get a chance to see what it’s like to be a DC in the real world,” says Jordan Wolff, a 5th quarter D.C. student. I look forward to attending the next Real World event. It’s important to see different offices so you can start to develop your own vision for your own practice.” The next RW event will take place on July 14, 2011.
Now accepting reservations for alumni campus tours Come visit us for a tour of the campus of your alma mater and see how much it’s changed! Whether it’s been two years or 20, you’ll be amazed at the transformation that has taken place at LIFE. The tour will take approximately two hours and will conclude with lunch (on us!) at the new on-campus dining facility, the Socrates Café. Tours take place the second Thursday of each month from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and are limited to five alumni per tour. To sign up for our next tour, please contact us at 800-543-3203 or Alumni@LIFE.edu.
Harris and Tatum
Alumni on the road Leila Tatum, alumni relations manager and Greg Harris, VP for university advancement, represented LIFE at the Unified Virginia Chiropractic Association spring convention in April. Not only did they host a booth in the exhibitor hall, but they also sponsored the main speaker, Dr. James Chestnut, who presented a program entitled “The Wellness & Prevention Paradigm and Chiropractic.” Greg Harris addressed the attendees about what LIFE is doing to advance Chiropractic. LIFE hosted a booth and an alumni luncheon at the Michigan Association of Chiropractic convention in May and another alumni luncheon in Alabama at the Alabama State Chiropractic Association annual convention in June.
Martinis and IMAX with the LIFE Alumni Association Cohen and students in his Buckhead practice.
Association Board member, Dr. Austin Cohen (’09). The RW series gives alumni an opportunity to give back to the University by hosting LIFE students in their offices, giving them a tour and answering questions about day-to-day life as a chiropractor. The first event had more than 25 students in attendance, with all class levels represented. We had a great turnout and received a lot of positive feedback from the students. Our goal is to show students a variety of practices to give them a better idea as to what
Each month, the Alumni Association will host social events in the metro Atlanta area where local chiropractors can get together, share ideas and have a great time. The inaugural event took place at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History’s always entertaining Martinis and IMAX on Friday, April 29. Attendees enjoyed live music and an IMAX film while reconnecting with fellow LIFE alumni. Drs. Austin Cohen, Alumni Association representative, and Brian McAulay, executive vice president of Life University, were on hand. A good time was had by all. The LIFE Alumni Association is currently planning the next social event. McAulay, Cohen and friends at Martinis and Imax.
Summer
2011
www.LIFE.edu
22
CLASS NOTES
Keep in Touch with Dr. Carl Bennett (’85) celebrated 25 years in practice in September by hosting an open house at his Port Orange, Fla. office where he offered free adjustments to new and current patients. After graduating from LIFE, Bennett worked as a chiropractic associate in Ocala, Fla. He opened his first Bennett Chiropractic Clinic in Ocala in 1987. He opened the current location in Port Orange in 1999. Dr. Bennett generously spends his time performing physicals for local daycares, schools and colleges, often donating proceeds back to their athletic programs. He also presents lectures at local high schools about the chiropractic profession and the importance of experiencing success at work. Dr. S. L. Shanti and son, Ezra, moved from New England to Honolulu, Hawaii seven years ago, where Shanti has held several volunteer offices. For the first three years, he served as the Treasurer of the Voyager Charter School P.T.S.A., followed by a year as the Hawaii State PTSA’s Health and Safety Director. He then began to homeschool Ezra, started teaching physical education and is currently teaching Hawaiian Marine Life and Habitat at New Hope Homeschool Ministry. Dr. Shanti was the Oahu Island Director of the Hawaii State Chiropractic Association (HSCA) for one year and is now in the middle of a second term as the Vice President of the HSCA. His wife, Dr. Sarada Shanti, still resides in Massachusetts and enjoys her life as an artist and chiropractor. Dr. Amanda Mahaffey (‘08) accepted a position at Port City Chiropractic in Portsmouth, N.H. In addition to seeing adult patients, Mahaffey specializes in the Webster Technique, specifically pediatrics and prenatal care. She had the opportunity to share her passion and educate others about Chiropractic when she served as an American and Chiropractic ambassador in Zigong, China. Dr. Steven Lindner (’96) celebrated 15 years in practice in November. He also celebrated his son Alexander’s second birthday in January. Dr. Lindner is a contributor to CCP guidelines and is also adjunct faculty at Adelphi University, Nassau Community College, teaching Anatomy and Physiology. He will complete his Master’s in Applied Clinical Nutrition this summer.
Summer
2011
www.LIFE.edu
Drs. Jeffry Michael Smith (‘83) and Michelle Zuback Smith (‘88) celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary in December. Dr. Jeffry Smith was a LIFE faculty member for nine years and he and his wife now practice in Brunswick, Ga. Dr. Stephen Estner (‘97) now provides a free, need-based taxi service to all of his patients who are unable to make it to his office on their own. He is also a volunteer at the Rhode Island Free Clinic, is the current CES boxing chiropractor, and is listed with the Brain Injury Association of Rhode Island. In addition to his practice, he is also a staff physician at Women and Infants Hospital, a member of the Chiropractic Society of Rhode Island, and a former board member of the Cranston (Rhode Island) Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Bill Snow (’99) opened a practice in December in Ormond Beach, Fla. with friend Dr. Brad Tepper (Palmer ’09). Dr. Snow was licensed in 2002 and has practiced privately in the Orlando area since. Tepper and Snow met through mutual friends and worked together while Tepper completed his state exams last year. They plan to specialize in personal injury and slip-and-fall accidents. Dr. Peter Goldman (‘97) is a black belt in Oyama full-contact karate and a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He also was a full-contact karate fighter in the early ‘90s. According to Dr. Goldman, about 35 percent of his patients are professional athletes. He uses his martial arts training and knowledge in his practice to help determine proper treatment for sports injuries. Goldman lives in San Francisco, Calif., with his wife, 9-year-old son and 4-year-old daughter. His office is in Cow Hollow. Dr. Karen Henard (‘94) has been elected president of the Florida Chiropractic Society (FCS), a state organization based out of West Palm Beach, Fla. Dr. Henard practices in Niceville, Fla. Dr. Christopher Miller (‘03) and Dr. Joel Gugnitz (’09) are the “Back and Neck Experts” for Wood TV 8, a 24-hour NBC news affiliate in Grand Rapids, Mich. The “Ask the Expert” sec-
Graduates tion features experts specializing in categories ranging from pet health to dentistry. Viewers are able to submit questions and concerns to the experts, learn about Chiropractic and even sign up for a free consultation. Dr. Michael J. Duckett (’86) has published 150 books and programs that focus on human achievement. Dr. Duckett teaches seminars around the world and believes that if a person has confusion in any area of life, that person needs more intelligence in that particular area in order to become empowered. Dr. Guy Furno (‘90) addressed the United Nations SRC Enlightenment Society on Nutrition’s Role in “True Health Care Reform” and The Health Challenges of the 21st Century. He discussed various topics ranging from the five most common barriers to healing, to how to unlock and release your healer within. His practice consists of family care and wellness including pregnancy, pediatrics and adult care, and he holds a fellowship in pediatrics from the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association. Dr. Steven Shoshany (’96) was featured on the Dr. Oz television show. During a segment dedicated to Chiropractic, Dr. Shoshany performed an adjustment on Dr. Oz’s “assistant of the day,” positioning her on an in-studio adjusting table and delivering both a sidelying and a prone adjustment. He explained to Dr. Oz and audience members that chiropractors attempt to find the root cause of pain, rather than trying to mask it with painrelieving medication. Dr. Oz set up the segment by emphasizing the prevalence of back pain in the general population and how many common daily activities can put the spine at risk for pain/injury. Dr. Marc J. Rogers (’99) opened a new 3,200square foot office in Largo, Fla. Renamed Coastal Chiropractic Rehab & Wellness Center, the office features a rehabilitation facility, exercise equipment and physical therapy. He plans on adding another DC and an acupuncture physician. It has been a dream of Rogers’ to own his own building and he is very proud of it. He lives in Indian Rocks Beach, Fla. with his wife, Sharon, and two girls, Sidney and Brooke.
23
We would like to extend our condolences to the family of Dr. Jason A. Weniger (’02) who passed away at home March 29, 2011. Donations would be appreciated to the Educational Fund for his son, Tyler Weniger, c/o 114 Crestwood Ave., Branchburg, NJ 08876. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Weniger family.
perspective; the critical examination and integration of Chiropractic’s metaphysical and clinical principles of life, health and healing into his or her own life; and the will to profess that perspective and those principles in the marketplace of ideas, all of which are necessary to transform a chiropractic student into a chiropractic philosopher.
Dr. D. Jessica Crivelli (‘98) purchased a new building for her Spring Hill, Fla. practice and plans to renovate it to be completely “green.” She’s been in contact with her local Chamber of Commerce in hopes to spearhead other green initiatives in her community and become a model to help other businesses go green. Throughout the renovation process, she plans to offer tips for other businesses on how to do so in an eco-friendly way.
Dr. Dan Batchelor, (’80) will be a supporting actor in the upcoming motion picture “Against the Wind,” an action-adventure movie where he plays the part of a World War I fighter pilot who later becomes an undercover DEA agent. In the film, he is sent to eliminate several drug lords involved in an opium business that exports opium throughout the world. The movie was filmed in Malayasia, Costa Rica and the USA. The movie should be released in the Fall of 2011.
We would like to extend our condolences to the family of Dr. Chriss Sigafoose (’78) who passed away Saturday, March 26, 2011. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Sigafoose family. The School of Business kicked off its Speakers Program this winter quarter. Guest speaker Ty Woods (‘10) shared information on tax credits for students as well as successful strategies for obtaining educational grants and scholarships. Woods graduated with her bachelor’s degree in business administration. Congratulations to Drs. William Vicory (‘11) and Patricia Pilling (‘11) for receiving the Life University Clinic Excellence Award during the March 2011 commencement . The Clinic Excellence Award is presented to graduating student interns who have demonstrated, throughout their clinic careers, outstanding achievement in service and academic performance. The criteria that determine excellence in the LIFE clinics are grounded in the Eight Core Proficiencies and require extraordinary patient care, outstanding communication and relationship skills, integrity and good citizenship, and the willingness to advance chiropractic knowledge and science. Congratulations to Drs. Miranda Abbott (‘11) and Ian Shtulman (‘11) for receiving the Life University Chiropractic Philosophy Distinction during the March 2011 commencement. This distinction is given to those students who best exemplify the deep understanding of Chiropractic’s fundamental vitalistic
Dr. Ken Mascara (‘83) announced his plans to seek a fourth term as the St. Lucie County (Florida) sheriff. He made the career change in 2000 after practicing Chiropractic since 1983. He also served as a part-time and fulltime deputy sheriff in 1976 and 1977, respectively. The general election is scheduled for Nov. 6, 2012. If needed, the primary would be Aug. 28, 2012. Aimee Bruketa (‘05), a graduate of LIFE’s Sport Health Science master’s degree program, has been an athletic trainer for Badin High School in Hamilton, Ohio for six years. She works with high school athletes helping to train and rehabilitate them to get them back out on the field or court after an injury. We would like to extend our condolences to the family of Dr. Megan Shreve (’10) who passed away on Friday, Jan. 21, 2011. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Shreve family. Dr. Harry Heeder (‘10) was chosen to host and coordinate San Diego’s Community Wellness Day May 14, 2011. Community Wellness Day is a national event focusing on educating the members of the community on very important information which is critical to their total wellness. He shared an array of information on health, safety, environmental and financial wellness. This event took place in many cities nationwide during a four-week period in spring of 2011.
Dr. Jim (Doc) Eaton (’92), former member of the Georgia Council of Chiropractic Board of Directors, recently celebrated his first anniversary in China serving as the Director of the Life University Clinic at the Zigong First Peoples Hospital. Dr. Bruce Salzinger (‘93) founded Chiropractic Healthcare of Buckhead, which was named the No. 9 company in the small company category in the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s 2011 Healthiest Employers Awards. Some of Chiropractic Healthcare of Buckhead’s wellness initiatives include proactive chiropractic care and attention to a healthy diet as well as regular exercise. They also focus on the importance of resting when needed and maintaining a positive mental attitude. Aaron McMaster (’10), a recent Business graduate, has decided to apply his entrepreneurship skills from his B.B.A. degree to pursue his D.C. degree. Both of his parents are DCs as well. Aaron was a star business student, an honor society inductee and LIFE rugby player. Georgia governor Nathan Deal appointed Dr. David Wren (’86) to the Georgia State Board of Chiropractic Examiners. Dr. Wren currently owns and practices at Dr. Wren Chiropractic & Sports Injury Center in Albany, Ga. He serves on the board of the Albany Advocacy Resource Center and is a past president. He also served on the board of directors of Special Olympics Georgia and is a member of the Georgia Chiropractic Association, where he once served as vice president. We would like to extend our condolences to the family of Dr. Gary C. Wanamaker (’95) following his death on Friday, April 29. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Wanamaker family. Dr. Stephen Welsh (’96) was recognized as the 2011 ICA Chiropractor of the Year. Dr. Welsh addressed the combined meeting of the ICA Board and the ICA Representative Assembly, held at Life University, with a PowerPoint presentation on the myths associated with “chiropractic medicine.”
DON’T BE SHY! We’d like to include your personal and professional news and photos in upcoming editions of Class Notes. Send your information to Alumni@LIFE.edu.
www.LIFE.edu
Summer
2011
24
Mark Your Alumni Events For more information or to register please contact the Life University Department of Alumni Relations at Alumni@LIFE.edu or 800-543-3203. DATE
EVENT/VENUE
LOCATION
ALUMNI EVENT TIME
14
Real World: DCs
Office of Drs. Shawn and Karen Ferguson 7-9 p.m.
30
Atlanta Braves vs. Florida Marlins with the Alumni Association Turner Field
5 p.m. Tailgate, 7:10 Game
AUGUST 12-14 19-21 25-28
Florida Chiropractic Society 20 Hour Flex Express Georgia Chiropractic Council Chiro-Expo Florida Chiropractic Association
The Breakers, Palm Beach, FL Atlanta Mariott NW, GA The Peabody, Orlando, FL
Sat. 7:30 p.m. Sat. 7:30 p.m. Sat. Lunch 12-2 p.m.
1 30-Oct 2
Real World: DCs Michigan Association of Chiropractic
TBD Hyatt Regency Dearborn
7-9 p.m. Sat. 12:30-2 p.m.
OCTOBER 1 6 14-16 14-16 21-23 29-30
Alumni Party and Class Reunions during Fall CE Weekend Real World: DCs Unified Virginia Chiropractic Association New York Chiropractic Council Georgia Chiropractic Association Fall Conference Association of New Jersey Chiropractors
On Campus TBD Kingsmill Resort & Spa, Williamsburg, VA Westchester Marriot, Tarrytown, NY Marriott Atlanta Century Center Hilton East Brunswick
Sat. 6-9 p.m. TBD Sat. Dinner Sat. Lunch TBD TBD
JULY
SEPTEMBER
PG & CE Seminar Schedule For more information or to register, visit http://www.LIFE.edu/Continuing_Education or contact the Postgraduate Programs Office at 800-543-3406. DATE
PROGRAM NAME
INSTRUCTOR
CE HOURS
JULY 16-17
100-Year Lifestyle Certification: Class One — Longevity, Performance and Chiropractic Erik Plasker
12
23-24
Certified Chiropractic Extremities Practitioner, Module 5: Rehab of Extremity
Paul Hetrick
15
5-6
Torque Release Seminar
Jay Holder
15
7
Torque Release Workshop
Jay Holder
No CE
27-28
Certified Chiropractic Extremities Practitioner, Module 6: Soft Tissue
Michael Krasnov
15
27-28
100-Year Lifestyle Certification: Class Two — Patient Management & The 100-Year Lifestyle Paradigm
Erik Plasker
12
John Downes
15
AUGUST
OCTOBER 15-16
Summer
2011
Certified Chiropractic Extremities Practitioner, Module 7: Global Assesment of Functioning
www.LIFE.edu
Life University 1269 Barclay Circle Marietta, GA 30060
www.LIFE.edu
Important Contacts Update Your Information: Office of Alumni Relations 800-543-3203 Make a Gift: Office of Development 800-543-3436 Order a Transcript: Office of the Registrar 888-423-5547 Volunteer with Student Recruiting: Office of Recruitment 800-543-3202 Place an Ad on the Website: 770-426-2700 or email careers@LIFE.edu