Volume 2, 2023

The Tower is a publication of Logan University for alumni, students, employees and friends of the University

THE TOWER Vol. 2, 2023

Beginning in 2023 The Tower will be published two times a year in the spring and fall. Archived issues can be found at Logan.edu/The-Tower.

On the Cover: From left to right: Drs. Dennis Doyle, Jan Roberts and Rodney Williams at Logan’s Symposium 2023. Photo: Ben Munson Inside photography: Sierra Carter, Mike Chappell

The Tower is produced by the Department of Marketing and Communications. Reader comments can be emailed to Tower@Logan.edu.

THE TOWER Logan University 1851 Schoettler Road Chesterfield, MO 63017 Tower@Logan.edu | Logan.edu 636-230-1704

First FOREMOST

Phi Kappa Phi installed its 357th chapter at Logan on May 19. Phi Kappa Phi is the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society recognizing academic excellence. “The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi is pleased to welcome Logan University to its community of service-minded scholars,” said Phi Kappa Phi Executive Director and CEO Bradley Newcomer, PhD, MBA. “Logan University’s commitment to excellence in health sciences, education and service reflects its emphasis on training leaders dedicated to transforming health and wellness in the communities it serves.”

Logan and SSM Health Care Corporation (SSM Health) recently established a partnership qualifying all SSM Health employees, their spouses and their children for a 10 percent tuition discount for each of Logan’s degree programs. “SSM Health is a well-renowned health care institution in St. Louis that employs some of the area’s best and brightest individuals,” said Logan President Clay McDonald, DC (’82), MBA, JD. “We are excited to welcome those individuals and their family members into the Logan family, which will in turn help meet the increasing need for health care professionals in St. Louis.”

REMINDER

Logan University is proud to welcome trustee Sam Wang, DC and advisory member Stephen C. Marini, DC, PhD to its Board of Trustees.

Dr. Wang is chief operating officer of TVG-Medulla LLC and co-founder of Chiro One Wellness Center. Dr. Marini has been practicing chiropractic care for more than 20 years, served as academic dean and assistant professor at Pennsylvania College of Chiropractic and has published numerous scholarly articles.

Logan presented Foot Levelers Chairman and CEO Kent S. Greenawalt with the honorary Doctor of Chiropractic Humanities degree during the commencement ceremony held on campus April 22. Kent also delivered the commencement address. “I am truly honored and humbled to accept this honorary degree and take pride in our achievements as a profession,” Kent said.

When you refer a prospective Doctor of Chiropractic student to Logan, the admissions team will waive the $50 tuition fee for those who apply. Learn

more at Logan.edu/Admissions.

Dr. Sam Wang

Dr. Stephen C. Marini

Year after year, Logan University is recognized as a top-ranking institution for its degree programs, faculty and facilities. However, we are always looking for opportunities to innovate, improve and better prepare tomorrow’s health care leaders. One of the many ways we ensure Logan continues to move forward is by employing the world-renowned Baldrige Excellence Framework. It includes leadership and management practices that empower organizations to accomplish their missions, improve results and become more competitive.

To familiarize members of Logan’s leadership team with the Baldrige Excellence Framework and how to use it, we hosted the Quality Texas Foundation Organizational Leadership/ Examiner Training on campus in late June. This three-day, in-person event not only trained attendees on how to determine organizational strengths and identify opportunities for improvement but also provided the chance to hone leadership skills and engage with education and business leaders from within and beyond the St. Louis area.

from PRESIDENT CLAY MCDONALD

Professional development like this prepares our team members to adapt to an everchanging higher education landscape.

Part of our commitment to continuous improvement also means developing additional degree programs that complement our flagship Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) program, in which we continue to invest. To advance our goal of becoming the premier whole health university, I am proud to announce that Logan will launch a physician assistant master’s degree program. You can learn more about how this new program fits into the university’s strategic plan and meet Brooke Miller, DMSc, PA-C, program chair and founding program director and James Toombs, MD, medical director on page 8 of this magazine.

Hosting our annual Symposium is yet another way Logan remains at the forefront of health care education. At this year’s event, which took place April 13-16 at St. Louis Union Station, nearly 600 attendees enjoyed continuing education opportunities, chiropractic exhibitors, networking events and more. Turn to page 26 for a recap and save the date for Symposium 2024 April 12-13!

For me a highlight of Symposium 2023 was presenting the prestigious Spirit of Logan Distinguished Alumni Award to four accomplished individuals. Read more about the honorees and the significant and lasting impact they have made on Logan University on page 23.

Also in April we celebrated the retirements of two legendary Logan professors: Ralph Filson, DC (’69) and Donald Christy, DC (’79), both of whom made an indelible mark on the university. We look back on their careers at Logan on pages 10 and 11.

Earlier this year we said goodbye to one of Logan’s most generous supporters, William D. Purser, DC (’54). With his personal motto, “Be the best you can be,” Dr. Purser’s legacy will live on through his significant financial contributions to campaigns, student scholarships and capital improvement projects, including the William D. Purser, DC Center, a focal point of Logan’s beautiful campus. A tribute to Dr. Purser can be found on page 22.

Looking forward, we will again host the Symposium on Women’s Health in conjunction with the American Chiropractic Association Council on Women’s Health October 21-22, 2023. Learn more and register online at Logan.edu/Symposium-On-WomensHealth. We also continue to brim with excitement as the construction and expansion of the Fuhr Science Center gets closer to completion.

There has never been a more exciting time for Logan University, and I am delighted you are all a part of it.

NOFA SHIBLEY, DC (’97), instructor at Logan competed in the GO! St. Louis Marathon— her 25th marathon— on April 2. Coincidentally, she reached this milestone right after she was recognized for 25 years of teaching at Logan.

A native of Arkansas, Dr. Shibley decided to pursue her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Logan based on a recommendation from a chiropractor she met while living in Nashville.

“From a young age I found chiropractic to be extremely helpful in healing and recovery,” she said. “I have always been an athlete, and I saw the benefits of chiropractic and knew this was the career for me.”

She graduated as valedictorian of her class in 1997. She was so nervous about giving her commencement speech that she enrolled in a program that helped her learn public speaking. After graduation she began teaching at Logan, putting her newfound skills to use in her classroom.

First she worked with Kathy Kuhn, DC, Logan instructor as a teaching assistant for the Thompson Technique course. Over the last 25 years she has taught in most chiropractic technique classes, including Activator Method, Logan Basic and Diversified.

“I enjoy teaching all the techniques to my students so they can identify the best way to treat a patient,” Dr. Shibley said. “Patients may just need one technique, but this gives students the tools to ensure successful outcomes.”

In addition to teaching, Dr. Shibley has maintained a private practice in St. Louis for the past 25 years.

“It is rewarding to see the excitement students feel when they comprehend a concept or learn a new technique, and I enjoy helping them understand the importance of healing others,” she said. “But by teaching and practicing, I can double the amount of people I impact.”

When not teaching students and treating patients, Dr. Shibley is training for and running marathons. She ran her first marathon in 2001 in Chicago and completed 16 others before qualifying for the Boston Marathon in 2009.

Dr. Shibley was running the Boston Marathon in 2013 when the bombings occurred that killed three people and wounded hundreds of others.

“I was crossing the finish line when I heard the first explosion,” she said. “It was terrifying once we realized what was happening.”

Dr. Shibley advises anyone training for a marathon to gradually increase their running distance by 10 percent each week. She also recommends tapering runs three weeks before the marathon and maintaining a healthy diet.

“My favorite place to run in St. Louis is Forest Park,” she said. “I like to keep my long runs at 10 miles all year so that when I decide to start training for a marathon, I already have a base to work from. I only do three 20-mile runs before the actual marathon.”

Her 25th marathon will not be her last.

Dr. Shibley’s goal is to train for and complete a 50K ultramarathon.

“It’s good to always have a goal in mind,” she said.

Growing up in Coral Springs, Florida, TODD NARSON, DC (’90), DACBSP®, ICSC started suffering from severe migraines when he was 11. His doctors were unable to treat him, so Dr. Narson’s father took him to a chiropractor. After a few months of care, the migraines disappeared.

“I continued to visit the chiropractors, and one day they suggested I become one,” Dr. Narson said. “The seed was planted.”

He ended up shadowing Jack Beardsley, DC (‘84) for a weekend in the Florida Keys. Dr. Narson enjoyed the experience so much that he decided to apply to Logan.

While he was a student, his parents started a portable table company called the Narson Table Company. The American Chiropractic Association and the International Federation of Sports Chiropractic (FICS) ended up designating it as their official table.

While Dr. Narson’s parents were showing their tables at a FICS conference in New Jersey, they decided to fly him out so he could observe the sports chiropractors there.

Logan University is a community of extraordinary leaders. Learn how these individuals are making an impact in their own communities, careers and beyond.

Drs. Todd and Corey Narson

Dr. Nofa Shibley

That is when Dr. Narson realized he wanted to dedicate his career to sports medicine.

Over the years Dr. Narson has completed a sports medicine rotation at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado and was a member of the sports medicine team for Team USA Triathlon. He has also worked with athletes from the University of Miami and the Pan American Games and treated professional boxer Lamar Cochise Murphy. Additionally, Dr. Narson served on the Florida High School Athletic Association’s Sports Medicine Advisory Committee.

In recognition of his 30 years working with athletic trainers and sports medicine teams across a variety of sports, Dr. Narson was recently appointed to the Florida Board of Athletic Training by Governor Ron DeSantis.

“I was surprised and happy to be appointed, and I look forward to serving Florida by keeping the bar high for athletic training in the state,” Dr. Narson said. “I have a great deal of respect for the profession of athletic training, and I feel their skills and services are undervalued. Athletic trainers can really make a difference in athletes’ health, and every team should have one, especially at the high school level.”

Dr. Narson and his wife, Corey, who is also a chiropractor, have operated their practice, Miami Beach Family & Sports Chiropractic Center, in Florida for more than 30 years. They focus on helping their patients reach and exceed their health goals.

“What I think sets me apart is the time I spend on the initial consultation and exam,” Dr. Narson said. “To me, this is the most important thing I do to pinpoint the diagnosis and create an effective treatment plan.”

He also serves on the Board of Directors of the Florida Chiropractic Association and was recently elected as vice president of the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians.

“Finding what you love before selecting a career is important so that you can specialize in that area,” Dr. Narson said. “In my case I love sports, and that has driven

me to continue learning and growing in the sports medicine field. My passion for caring for athletes has helped all my patients achieve the best possible outcomes with a combination of treatments and techniques.”

When she was a sophomore in high school, PAYTON BIRKEL not only aspired to become a chiropractor, but also knew she wanted to attend Logan University. Logan alumnus Daniel Nekolite, DC (’13) treated her in her hometown of O’Neill, Nebraska, which helped improve her performance as a multisport high school athlete.

“I could not believe how much the treatment helped me and how much knowledge of the human body Dr. Nekolite had,” Payton said.

Her visits with Dr. Nekolite inspired her to tour Logan’s campus, where she immediately felt at home. Shortly after starting her undergraduate degree at Wayne State College in Wayne, Nebraska, Payton enrolled at Logan to complete her Bachelor of Science in Life Science degree, accelerating her journey toward earning her Doctor of Chiropractic.

“We were just coming out of the pandemic during my third trimester at Logan, so it was a difficult start for me,” said Payton, who is currently a trimester 9 student. “I was sharing these thoughts with my mom when she encouraged me to restart Logan’s Running Club. In my second trimester I did just that, and it made

all the difference. The friends I have made through running are still my closest. School takes up a lot of time, but it’s important to not lose yourself and find things to do that you enjoy.”

Under Payton’s leadership the Running Club started meeting twice a week at a local track and went on long runs on Saturday mornings.

“After the Saturday runs, we would grab coffee and socialize,” she said. “It was exactly what I needed at that time.”

Payton’s first marathon was the Wausau Marathon in Wisconsin in August 2022. She completed the 26.2 miles in three hours and 15 minutes, which qualified her for the Boston Marathon in April 2023. Sponsored by Logan, her training was going well until three weeks before the Boston Marathon when she began experiencing symptoms of a stress fracture in her heel.

“My coach, Alexander Coleman, DC (’22) helped me through training and physical therapy after the injury,” Payton said. “He was invaluable, ensuring I was able to perform at my best when it was time for the marathon.”

Payton ran the Boston Marathon in three hours and six minutes—her best time ever— and finished in the top 10 percent of her age group.

“I felt amazing the entire race until my heel started hurting at mile 25, but by then the adrenaline was able to carry me to the finish line,” Payton said. “The crowds cheered us on the whole way, and I had my coach and family encouraging me. It was phenomenal to represent Logan at this event and complete the marathon.”

Payton is now training for the Rocket City Marathon in Alabama in December and is hoping to qualify for the Tokyo Marathon in the Semi-Elite category, which would mean running a time of two hours and 52 minutes. Her goal is to complete all six major marathons, including Tokyo, Berlin, Chicago, New York, London and Boston.

When she graduates in April 2024, Payton hopes to move closer to family in Nebraska or South Dakota and start her own chiropractic practice.

Payton Birkel

New Physician Assistant Master’s Degree Program Coming to Logan

As a forward-thinking university, Logan is committed to developing degree programs that not only complement its flagship Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) program, but also put graduates at the forefront of patient-centered, evidence-informed health care. Launching a new physician assistant (PA) program is the next step Logan is taking to advance its goal of becoming the premier whole health university.

Logan has applied for Accreditation— Provisional from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA)—the accrediting body for PA programs in the United States. Logan anticipates matriculating its first class in January 2026, pending achieving Accreditation - Provisional status at the March 2025 ARC-PA meeting.

“Our PA program will be unique because of its emphasis on integrative care and whole-body health,” said Logan President Clay McDonald, DC (’82), MBA, JD. “In addition to being immersed in the traditional medical model, Logan PA students will be surrounded by health care professionals practicing whole health care, which will enhance potential health care partnerships

with chiropractors, dietitians and sports scientists when they graduate.”

PAs are licensed medical providers who practice medicine in every specialty and setting. While their specific practice depends on the environment in which they work, their level of experience, their specialty and state laws, they generally conduct physical exams, diagnose illness and disease, treat and educate patients, and provide preventative care.

“We are building an integrated, multidisciplinary health care community at Logan that will include future PAs, registered dietitians, sports scientists and more,” said April Taylor, DBA, JD, dean of Logan’s College of Health Sciences (COHS).

“These students will work on case studies and conduct research that reflects all their perspectives and capabilities. Imagine all your health care professionals collaborating. That’s the reality we want to create here at Logan.”

Similarly, Dr. McDonald said he sees how the addition will positively impact

the College of Chiropractic (COC).

“Our DC students will be better prepared to work from a 360-degree perspective,” he said, “effectively caring for the growing number of patients with complex medical conditions who need chiropractic care in addition to allopathic medicine.”

Kristina Petrocco-Napuli, DC, MS, FICC, dean for the COC agrees.

“As an institution of higher education in the health care space, I believe it’s important to identify opportunities where we can grow and expand our offerings that ultimately benefit the patient population,” Dr. Petrocco-Napuli said. “When you look at Logan, you see a university that has grown in response to both the evolving needs of students as well as the health care landscape—from degrees that provide integrated learning methods and formats to our Doctor of Education, which ensures health care educators are properly equipped for successfully teaching the next generation of health care leaders. It’s more than being a part of the whole health care model. It’s about creating a whole health culture.”

With an aging population and shortage of physicians across the U.S., patients need more competent, compassionate PAs. Dr. Taylor said in addition to growing demand in communities, there is a tremendous number of students who are interested in becoming PAs.

“With this new program, Logan can help address these gaps by educating and training PA students in evidence-based, whole health care,” she said.

Left to right: Dr. April Taylor, Dr. Brian McAulay, Dr. Clay McDonald, Dr. Brooke Miller, Dr. James Toombs and Cheryl Maestas

Meet the Team

Logan recently welcomed Brooke Miller, DMSc, PA-C, program chair and founding program director for the new physician assistant master’s degree program and James Toombs, MD, who will serve as the program medical director.

Dr. Brooke Miller

A life-changing experience building a hospital and girl’s schools and developing a nursing program in Afghanistan inspired Dr. Brooke Miller to leave organizational leadership to become a PA.

In 2006 she began her PA career at Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC) as a clinical assistant professor for the school’s PA program. She also started practicing at SIUC’s Department of Family and Community Medicine Residency Clinic. She changed roles after her first child was born, working for a Federally Qualified Health Center group where she practiced, authored and managed grants, and served as chief operating officer.

Dr. Miller returned to SIUC in 2015 to teach and practice. Most of her research focused on social determinants of health and interprofessional education. She was then recruited as program director and associate professor at Concordia University Wisconsin. She was serving as interim department chair for Concordia University’s two PA programs in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Mequon, Wisconsin, before transitioning to her current role at Logan.

“I am thrilled and honored to have the opportunity to develop and launch Logan’s new PA program, which will graduate students who prioritize interprofessional collaboration and whole health for their patients,” Dr. Miller said.

Dr. Miller has a bachelor’s degree in PA studies from SIUC, a master’s degree in PA studies from the University of Nebraska, and a Doctor of Medical Science from Lynchburg University.

“I love being in a position to help inspire the next generation of compassionate and empathetic PAs who will go on to make a positive difference in peoples’ lives,” Dr. Miller said.

Dr. James Toombs

Helping to develop Logan’s new PA program is the opportunity of a lifetime for Dr. James Toombs.

“I’m excited to be a part of a community that is so enthused about learning,” Dr. Toombs said. “Every day I hear students around campus talking about what they just saw in class or where they are headed next. I look forward to building a program that will enable students to pursue successful and rewarding careers in PA.”

Dr. Toombs spent five years as a staff physician and pain physician for the Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital in Columbia, Missouri, before being named director of the Pain Rehabilitation Center at St. Louis Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center from 2009 to 2018. There he collaborated with a variety of health care providers—including chiropractors—to build an interdisciplinary pain management program from the ground up.

“I have worked with Logan DCs for years and understand the whole-body health philosophy they bring to treating their patients,” Dr. Toombs said. “It seems to me that the PA program is a natural fit for the university.”

Dr. Toombs also had a parallel military career that spanned almost 37 years. He joined the United States Marine Corps Reserve in 1979 and retired as a colonel from the Missouri National Guard in

2016. In his current role at Logan, he is helping develop the PA program and will be responsible for securing clinical site placements for students.

Logan plans to name a director of clinical education and a director of didactic education this fall.

Logan’s DHPE Becomes Ed.D.

The Doctor of Health Professions Education (DHPE) degree at Logan University is now the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Health Professions Education.

Like the DHPE, the Ed.D. is aimed at educating individuals who have a passion for educating and training the next generation of health care professionals. The degree remains 100 percent online and is open to qualified candidates who come from both clinical and non-clinical backgrounds.

The Ed.D. curriculum remains the same as the DHPE, but the Ed.D. now includes enhanced research elements, including a research defense at both the proposal and final stages of students’ original research projects.

“Now is such a great time to pursue your Ed.D. at Logan,” said Laura Rauscher, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS, CTMH, program director for Logan’s Ed.D. program. “The need for quality educators in health professions continues to grow, and this degree offers our students the necessary practical and educational foundations to train, teach and mentor other health care professionals.”

To learn more, scan the QR code at right and connect with Admissions@Logan.edu or Dr. Rauscher at Laura.Rauscher@Logan.edu or 636-230-1832.

Drs. Brooke Miller and James Toombs

Drs. Ralph Filson and Donald Christy Retire from Logan

Two Logan University legends retired this spring after decades of service: Professors Ralph Filson, DC (’69) and Donald Christy, DC (’79). While they arrived at Logan via different paths, they share a love for the university and teaching the next generation of chiropractors.

Dr. Filson’s journey to chiropractic was—and still is—a family affair. A secondgeneration chiropractor, he is looking forward to welcoming his soon-to-be sonin-law Matt Huetter, a trimester 10 Doctor of Chiropractic student at Logan, into his practice upon his graduation in December 2023. Matt is engaged to Dr. Filson’s daughter Emma.

Born and raised in St. Louis, Dr. Filson has always been athletic and credits his father, Raymond Filson, DC for helping him recover from sports injuries faster than the other kids. “Back then chiropractic wasn’t a household term,” said Dr. Filson. “Most folks didn’t understand what my dad did, but they were intrigued by how much faster his treatments could get me back on the field following an injury.”

In addition to his father, Dr. Filson heralds his Logan professors as pioneers. “They led the way for my generation to help shape the perception of chiropractic and become ambassadors for the profession,” Dr. Filson said.

Athletics led Dr. Filson to chiropractic, but his involvement didn’t end there. Early in his career he cared for Olympic weightlifters. His treatment of former St. Louis Cardinals manager Joe Torre ballooned into treating the club’s general manager Walt Jocketty and later first baseman Mark McGwire. They were so impressed with the care Dr. Filson provided that he was invited to come to spring training one year and ended up serving as the team chiropractor from 1998 to 2011. His reputation spread, and the St. Louis Rams eventually hired him. He served as team chiropractor for two Super Bowls, including the organization’s 1999 win.

Dr. Filson has a 2004 National Championship ring and 2006 and 2011 World Series rings from his time with the Cardinals. A highlight of his career was being the recipient of the Professional

Baseball Chiropractic Society’s first Lifetime Achievement Award.

Despite working with some of the country’s most elite athletes, Dr. Filson’s father and his mentor, Otto Reinert, DC, FICC, former director of Logan’s Department of Diversified Technique are still his biggest role models. “They were both ahead of their times,” Dr. Filson said. “They understood chiropractic and helped cement its place in health care.”

Dr. Ralph Filson

“Students are like your children. When they turn out well and succeed, it fills you with a tremendous sense of pride knowing you helped mold them along the way.”

– Dr. Ralph Filson

Dr. Ralph Filson

Dr. Donald Altman (left) and Dr. Clay McDonald (middle) present Dr. Ralph Filson with the distinction of professor emeritus.

Dr. Filson has also drawn a lot of inspiration from the students he taught throughout his 42 years at Logan. He taught all the adjusting courses as well as a practice management class. “Students are like your children,” Dr. Filson said. “When they turn out well and succeed, it fills you with a tremendous sense of pride knowing you helped mold them along the way.”

Logan honored Dr. Filson with the distinction of professor emeritus at its April commencement ceremony. “Being one of only two people the university has ever given that honor to is tremendous,” Dr. Filson said. “I count that, along with being so incredibly proud of how all three of my children turned out, among my greatest accomplishments.”

In addition to his daughter Emma, who works as a speech-language pathologist, Dr. Filson has two other children. His son, Samuel, is an educator and daughter Kerry is in business management. He said all three were raised on Logan’s campus.

Dr. Donald Christy

Unlike Dr. Filson, who always knew he wanted to be a chiropractor, Dr. Christy discovered chiropractic after teaching high school French for 10 years. He considered changing careers when he saw firsthand what chiropractic could do for his lifelong struggle with asthma.

“I started talking to other chiropractors, and they were all very passionate about the profession,” Dr. Christy said. “That, coupled with my own experience as a patient, led me to Logan.”

Upon graduation from Logan Dr. Christy set up a practice in Alton, Illinois. It wasn’t long before Beatrice B. Hagen, DC (’40), former Logan president asked if he would be interested in teaching at Logan part time.

“Dr. Hagen later asked if I would consider an administrative role as dean of students in addition to teaching,” Dr. Christy said. “Logan was going through the accreditation process, and she believed my background would lend itself well to that important role.”

Dr. Christy accepted and ended up serving as dean for 30 years while continuing teaching.

In 1993

Dr. Christy completed his doctorate degree in education from Southern Illinois University with an emphasis in curriculum and instruction.

“Among the invaluable lessons I took away from that program was the power of conceptual learning,” Dr. Christy said. “I have since been a big promoter of its basic tenet that facts are important, but until and unless they are linked to concepts, students are apt to lose the information quickly.”

Dr. Christy integrated this philosophy into his teaching at Logan, beginning every class with a review of the last. “Standard orthopedics and neurological testing make so much more sense if linked to a patient’s chief complaint,” Dr. Christy said. “This fact was at the front of my mind when I developed and taught Logan’s neuromusculoskeletal class, which was always a student favorite.”

His notable contributions to Logan include establishing a student advising program in 1986 with Robyn Wilkerson, MS, DC, Logan’s former director of admissions that remains an integral component of the university. While Dr. Christy has worked under

five Logan presidents and taken part in celebrating many milestones, two stand out in his mind: achieving Council on Chiropractic Education and Regional North Central accreditations.

“The dedication of major buildings such as the Montgomery Health Center and Science & Research Center was also meaningful in terms of seeing to fruition the original vision that Hugh B. Logan, DC, Logan’s founder and first president had in mind when he first bought the land in Chesterfield where campus sits today,” Dr. Christy said.

While their journeys to Logan differed, Dr. Filson and Dr. Christy are united by the time they spent at Logan during some of the university’s most formative years.

Dr. Donald Christy

“I started talking to other chiropractors, and they were all very passionate about the profession. That, coupled with my own experience as a patient, led me to Logan.”

– Dr. Donald Christy

Dr. Donald Christy in the classroom at Logan

There’s No Place Like Home for the Kaufer Brothers

Arthur Kaufer, DC (’89) and David Kaufer, DC (’89) try to make their patients feel at home at their chiropractic practice. For 34 years the brothers have operated Kaufer Chiropractic from the same historic 1930s home where they grew up.

“I leave my house in the morning, and I’m at home the rest of my day at my office,” Dr. David said. “Our practice is not a typical doctor’s office. We enjoy the welcoming atmosphere it offers, and so do our patients.”

Their father, Marshall Kaufer, DC established the original Kaufer Chiropractic in the Ridgewood neighborhood of Queens, New York, in 1954. Looking to move further away from the city, all six members of the family relocated to Suffern, New York, where their father reestablished the practice in 1959. Dr. Arthur and Dr. David now continue the work Dr. Marshall began in Suffern 64 years ago.

Dr. Marshall treated patients on the first floor of the home while the family lived on the floors above. With

chiropractic so close to home, the brothers developed an interest in and passion for chiropractic during their formative years.

“As a young boy I watched my dad practice,” said Dr. David. “I would follow him from room to room and from patient to patient. At a young age we were able to see how patient health could be transformed through chiropractic care.”

Unlike Dr. David, who decided to pursue a career in chiropractic early in his life, Dr. Arthur pivoted into the field after he earned a master’s degree in counseling. When he realized psychology was not his calling, Dr. Arthur listened to his father’s advice and attended chiropractic school alongside Dr. David.

“I’ve found that my background in psychology helps me as a practitioner,”

said Dr. Arthur. “You can’t separate the mind from the body. They go hand in hand. Your emotions affect your health and vice versa.”

Although Dr. Marshall graduated from a chiropractic school in their home state of New York, the Kaufer brothers both made what turned out to be a quick and easy decision to attend Logan University. In fact, they began their coursework only one trimester apart.

“We visited several chiropractic colleges across the region,” said Dr. David. “As soon as we drove up the scenic route to campus, we knew Logan was right for us. We fell in love. Meeting the administrators and taking a guided tour further solidified our decision.”

Their father also enjoyed visiting Logan while the brothers were students.

Kaufer Chiropractic has operated for 65 years in the childhood home of Drs. David (left) and Arthur Kaufer.

“As a young boy I watched my dad practice. I would follow him from room to room and from patient to patient. At a young age we were able to see how patient health could be transformed through chiropractic care.”

– Dr. David Kaufer

Dr. Arthur remembers several occasions when Dr. Marshall demonstrated chiropractic adjustment techniques to him and his friends on campus.

“The entire Logan community was endearing,” said Dr. Arthur. “I enjoyed every minute of the years we spent there. It was challenging—even difficult at times—but we made great friends with people who are now our peers in the field.”

Now in its 65th year, Kaufer Chiropractic remains a staple of Suffern. As longtime residents of the community they serve, the brothers have treated generations of families and fostered a substantial network of patients.

“Our patients are practically family to us,” said Dr. David. “We see greatgrandparents all the way down to their grandchildren. Because we know everyone, our practice is based solely on referrals.”

Dr. Arthur and Dr. David are proud of the warm and welcoming practice they have built together.

“Our skills and work ethics complement each other well,” said Dr. David. “We have many similarities thanks to our father’s influence. We watched how he worked and interacted with others with confidence. We are grateful for the opportunity to carry on the lessons he taught us in this very home.”

“The entire Logan community was endearing. I enjoyed every minute of the years we spent there. It was challenging—even difficult at times—but we made great friends with people who are now our peers in the field.”

– Dr. Arthur Kaufer

Drs. Arthur (left) and David Kaufer have treated generations of families in their hometown of Suffern, New York.

McAuliffe Family Celebrates Century of Chiropractic Care

For 100 years chiropractic has been more than a profession for many of the McAuliffes. It is a lifestyle deeply rooted in family tradition and values. Their commitment to providing chiropractic care began during the foundational period of the industry when Arthur McAuliffe Sr., DC graduated from the St. Louis Chiropractic College and established McAuliffe Chiropractic in south St. Louis in 1923.

Dr. Arthur Sr. was a driving force behind the development of the chiropractic profession in St. Louis alongside Hugh B. Logan, DC, Logan’s founder and first president. This makes the McAuliffes one of the longest-practicing, trailblazing chiropractic families in the United States.

“I’m proud my father started it all as a pioneer in chiropractic,” said Marilyn Fiorina, Dr. Arthur Sr.’s daughter. “I admire what my dad did to create the foundation of our family’s practice. It’s been 100 years, but it really doesn’t seem that long ago. I wish with all my heart he was here to see the legacy he began.”

Carrying on the chiropractic torch, Arthur McAuliffe Jr., DC reopened McAuliffe Chiropractic in 1955. It was located only three blocks from Dr. Arthur Sr.’s former practice in south St. Louis. In the early 1960s Dr. Arthur Jr. relocated his family to Columbia, Illinois, where he opened his practice in the basement of the family home. It was not long before he established a freestanding clinic, which the family operates in today.

“My grandfather was a leader ahead of his time,” said Kevin Clark, DC (’13), a fourth-generation chiropractor and grandson of Dr. Arthur Jr. “I keep a picture of all the chiropractors in my family on the wall of my practice, including my grandfather. It’s special to have that and reflect on the legacy and history my grandfather and great-grandfather have contributed to chiropractic.”

Dr. Arthur Jr. also contributed to the advancement of the profession through

his involvement with Logan. He served on Logan’s Board of Trustees and maintained a close relationship with former Logan President George A. Goodman, DC.

Dr. Arthur Jr. inspired many of his children and grandchildren to become chiropractors.

Arthur McAuliffe III, DC (’94) recalls each of his siblings assisting his father with tasks such as hanging X-rays to dry and cleaning machines.

“Our parents didn’t push us in any career direction, but they instilled in us a commitment to chiropractic and a strong work ethic,” said Dr. Arthur III.

The family currently includes 11 chiropractors practicing from the Midwest to the East Coast. Arthur Jr.’s daughter, Kathy McAuliffe, DC practiced alongside him in the original McAuliffe Chiropractic clinic for 15 years before taking over. Dr. Kathy and her daughter Kara Lamack, DC will lead the practice into its centennial year.

“The fact our practice has stood the test of time as chiropractic care continues to grow and evolve makes me most proud,” said Dr. Kathy. “We believe in chiropractic— everyone in the family does. The relationships we’ve built with our patients and our commitment to the traditions of

chiropractic adjustments all contribute to the practice’s longevity.”

That commitment to chiropractic spurred the McAuliffes to establish the Dr. Arthur L. McAuliffe Scholarship, which awards $1,400 scholarships to trimester 8 Doctor of Chiropractic students at Logan. It supports the next generation of chiropractors and honors Dr. Arthur Jr. and his passion for Logan.

“The future of our industry lives on in the next generation,” said Dr. Clark. “It is important that we foster the chiropractic tradition, share its history and ensure all students receive a solid education.”

The McAuliffe family looks forward to contributing to the advancement of chiropractic for the next 100 years and beyond.

“I hope our family remains committed to the chiropractic tradition, service to patients and our core values for years and generations to come,” said Dr. Kathy.

The McAuliffe family has been providing chiropractic care for more than 100 years.

Dr. Tim Gross Named Associate Provost of Operations

Logan University has welcomed Tim Gross, DC, MS as its associate provost of operations.

Dr. Gross didn’t plan to work in higher education when he began his career in chiropractic. However, the opportunity to help move the profession forward by shaping students’ lives gradually drew him away from private practice and into academia full time.

“I’m always reminded of a quote from Dr. B.J. Palmer: ‘We never know how far reaching something we may think, say or do today will affect the lives of millions tomorrow,’” said Dr. Gross. “In private practice you impact a lot of patients’ lives. But as an educator the number of lives you impact grows exponentially, as you are no longer one person who can only help so many patients. Rather, you are preparing hundreds of students to go out and help improve the lives of hundreds of thousands—perhaps millions—of patients. That kind of service is really gratifying.”

Dr. Gross joined Logan from Life University, where he most recently served as vice president for institutional effectiveness, planning and accreditation. Before that he had served as the institution’s vice president for academic affairs, and vice provost and interim vice president for academic affairs. He holds a chiropractic license in Georgia and is a certified chiropractic orthopedist, a Myers-Briggs Type Indicator administrator, and has obtained the Legion of Chiropractic Philosophers certification.

“Dr. Gross is already proving himself a tremendous asset to Logan University,” said Logan President Clay McDonald, DC (’82), MBA, JD. “His personal philosophy aligns well with Logan’s constant pursuit of

raising our own bar of excellence. The work he is doing evaluating our institutional effectiveness will enable us to pinpoint areas where we can be doing even better. I’m looking forward to seeing how the results will benefit our students.”

Dr. Gross leads the coordination of clinical operations among and between the university’s degree programs with clinical components. He also oversees data management and governance and ensures compliance in regional accreditation, specialized or programmatic accreditation, data integrity, state authorization and clinical compliance for all Logan’s degree programs.

One of Dr. Gross’ first priorities is developing standardized metrics to measure Logan’s effectiveness fostering student success. “The data extrapolated from these measures will enable Logan’s leadership team to create models of success across the spectrum of Logan’s program offerings,” Dr. Gross said.

In addition to the respect he has for Logan’s worldclass faculty and staff, Logan’s leadership team and strong strategic plan attracted Dr. Gross to the university.

“The way Logan is looking at whole-body health, breaking down its components and creating clinics and programs around them is something I’m really excited to be a part of,” Dr. Gross said. “It is imperative to promote and position chiropractic as a pillar within the whole health system while also continuing to establish Logan as a leader in whole health education.”

Dr. Gross believes the whole health paradigm is not simply the absence of disease or infirmity. It stretches beyond physical health to include optimal mental and social well-being, too. Noting that chiropractors tend to excel at listening to patients and determining how to help them in their whole health journeys, he stresses the importance of a team-based approach to health care.

“Bearing in mind that no one provider can do it all, the rise of integrated health care clinics has given chiropractors a new arena in which to shine amid an array of health care specialists, proving what a vital component chiropractic is to patients’ whole health,” said Dr. Gross.

First Cohort of Strength & Conditioning Students Graduates from Logan

Seven students made history in April 2023 when they became the first to graduate from Logan’s Master of Science in Strength & Conditioning (MS-SC) program. The graduating students were Aaron Bozarth, Klaudean Dozier, Carson Kinney, Austin Reid Kuennen, Victoriano Antonio Mesa, Logan Radik and Samuel Roome.

The university announced the MS-SC program in fall 2021, and classes began in summer 2022. Its founder and faculty members—who are all experienced coaches and active leaders in athletic performance—created a science-based, evidence-informed curriculum for the industry-driven program.

“We’re proud of the program we’ve built,” said Brittany Ramirez, DC (’15), MS (’18), LAT, ATC, CCSP®, program director for Logan’s MS-SC program. “This degree is another step in advancing education within the strength and conditioning profession, and Logan is honored to play a part in that.”

After graduating from the oneyear online degree program, the seven

students are now prepared to sit for the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) exam.

“Watching our students develop into knowledgeable and skilled professionals has been inspiring,” said Patrick Ivey, PhD, adjunct professor for Logan’s MS-SC program. “As we send off our first graduating class, I feel a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. I look forward to seeing our graduates make an impact in the field and continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in strength and conditioning. I am also excited about the future of the program and the countless opportunities that lie ahead for our students to excel in their careers.”

“We’re proud of the program we’ve built. This degree is another step in advancing education within the strength and conditioning profession, and Logan is honored to play a part in that.”

– Dr. Brittany Ramirez

Dr. Ivey comes from a strength and conditioning background. After a career in collegiate football and the National Football League, he has worked in athletic departments at several universities, including Arkansas State University, University of Louisville, University of Tulsa and University of Missouri. Dr. Ramirez has served as team chiropractor and athletic trainer for collegiate and professional sports teams for the last 12 years.

“Seeing our students graduate and take the next step toward fulfilling their career goals was incredible,” Dr. Ramirez said. “Watching this program come together over the last two years and having our hard work culminate in our first graduating class walking across the stage was a surreal moment.”

The graduates are confident the degree will positively impact their careers.

“Having the chance to learn from some of the industry’s finest coaches was incredible,” said Samuel, MBA, USAW-L1, FMSC, head sports performance coach at Averett University. “I’m already applying what I learned from this degree program on a daily basis as I work with student athletes.”

After coaching for 15 years, Aaron,

who is the head strength and conditioning coach at Midland University, gained additional knowledge and experience from the MS-SC.

“This program challenged me in new ways and introduced concepts that have helped me be even more successful,” Aaron said. “The instructors, having come from all over the country, provided great mentoring and practical insights.”

Scott Bird, RSCC*E, CSCS, MSCC, SCCC, field experience coordinator who took part in the development of the MS-SC program, was also proud of the graduating students.

“I feel grateful to help strength and conditioning coaches improve their skills and knowledge and continue to move forward in the profession,” Scott said. “I am excited to watch our program continue to grow and give coaches the opportunity to advance in the field of strength and conditioning.”

Dr. Ramirez believes the Dr. Ken Leistner Memorial Scholarship, which awards $1,000 to one MS-SC student every trimester, will continue enabling more students to graduate from the program.

“This scholarship is really special to me and my family,” Dr. Ramirez said. “It memorializes Dr. Kenneth Evan Leistner, a coach who played a significant role in advancing the strength and conditioning field and was an incredibly giving person. It also breaks down financial barriers and allows more students to further their education. Our goal is for coaches everywhere to be able to advance their education without sacrificing their careers, and our online, asynchronous program allows them to do exactly that.”

“Watching our students develop into knowledgeable and skilled professionals has been inspiring. I am also excited about the future of the program and the countless opportunities that lie ahead for our students to excel in their careers.”

– Dr. Patrick Ivey

Inaugural MS-IP Class Attends First PedTRA Weekend at Logan

The first cohort of students in Logan’s Master of Science in Integrative Pediatrics (MS-IP) program has interacted exclusively online since beginning coursework in fall 2022. They met their instructors and peers in person for the first time during the inaugural Pediatric Technique Review and Assessment (PedTRA) weekend hosted on Logan’s campus in April.

“It’s challenging to teach manual therapy through an online format,” said Elise Hewitt, DC, DICCP, FICC, founding program director for Logan’s MS-IP program. “We bring the master’s students together on campus to give them the hands-on practice they can’t get online. It allows students to not only receive individualized instruction but also to connect in person with their peers.”

The first of its kind in the United States, Logan’s MS-IP program offers clinically focused, specialized training for chiropractors seeking to become experts in pediatric health care. Through high-quality, evidence-informed training, the program takes chiropractors’ pediatric knowledge, skills and expertise to a higher level so they can deliver safe and effective chiropractic care to pediatric patients.

PedTRA Session 1 is the capstone for the Pediatric Technique 1 course students take during the second trimester of the MS-IP program. The course focuses on spinal and cranial manual therapy techniques. Students return to campus once more for PedTRA Session 2 as part of the Pediatric Technique 2 course in the second year of the program. This course centers on extremity manual therapy techniques and rehab exercises for pediatric patients.

“The purpose of PedTRA is to give MS-IP students the opportunity to receive in-person, hands-on practice with their instructors,” said Allison Harvey, DC, Montgomery Health Center senior clinician, Logan assistant professor, MS-IP faculty

member, PedTRA coordinator. “Students conclude the weekends, with the final assessment of the course, which is a written and performative exam.”

For the first PedTRA weekend Logan welcomed chiropractors and chiropractic students with advanced standing from across the United States as well as Mexico, Canada and the Netherlands.

“Master’s students enter the program with deep knowledge and experience in adjusting patients—mostly adults,” Dr. Hewitt said. “It’s in the technique courses, including PedTRA sessions, that MS-IP students learn how to modify manual therapy techniques to meet the specialized needs of pediatric patients of different ages and developmental stages.”

The three-day PedTRA weekend in April began with a formal welcome from Brian McAulay, DC, PhD, Logan’s executive vice president of academic affairs; April Taylor, DBA, JD, dean of Logan’s College of Health Sciences; and Dr. Hewitt. Then instructors Jenny Brocker, DC, DICCP and Karen Erickson, DC accompanied the students to Logan’s Simulation Lab where they engaged in hands-on, force-sensing technology exercises and utilized state-ofthe-art anatomage tables.

Master’s students were then granted access to Logan’s pediatric clinic, which gave them a glimpse into the education and training of chiropractic students specializing in pediatric care. During their visit master’s students posed questions about real-life patient scenarios, offering their unique

perspectives and contemplating how they could apply their acquired skills.

“I’ve been treating pediatric patients for a while,” MS-IP student Richard McWilliam, DC said. “It’s been interesting to unlearn some of the habits that I’d formed over time and learn to better tweak my adjustments for the patient in the room.”

MS-IP students spent the second day engaged in hands-on learning with Dr. Brocker and Dr. Erickson. Splitting the students into two groups, the instructors provided guidance during spinal and cranial technique review and practice sessions.

“I was a sponge this weekend, taking in as much of this clinical knowledge as possible,” said MS-IP student Caitlin Davis, DC. “I do cranial adjustments in my practice every day with my patients. I’ve been able to fine-tune those skills this weekend so I can hit the ground running.”

Beyond the classroom and clinic, Dr. Hewitt and Dr. Harvey hope the PedTRA weekend fostered a sense of camaraderie among the MS-IP students. With the full support of the Logan community behind them, they will be working together to lead the field of pediatric chiropractic into the future.

“It was great to see how fast this first group clicked,” said Dr. Harvey. “Not only did they elect to go to lunch together after their rigorous exam, but they collectively waited in support until the final person received their test result. It was a special moment for them.”

Young Alumnus Gives Back to Logan with Donation to Advancing Education, Transforming Lives Campaign

Two short months after graduating from Logan, Tyler Awe, DC (’19) opened his own practice in Fayetteville, Arkansas, near Rogers, his hometown. By spring 2023 Dr. Awe had not only built a steady patient base and weathered the COVID-19 pandemic, but he had also made a generous gift to Logan’s Advancing Education, Transforming Lives campaign.

“I chose to become a donor because I’m eternally grateful for what Logan gave to me,” Dr. Awe said. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without Logan, and I wanted to give back.”

Dr. Awe began giving back to Logan as early as his first trimester when he tutored other students in basic science courses. Then he advanced to serving as a clinical tutor. Now an alumnus, Dr. Awe wanted to find a way to continue helping the university from afar. That’s when he decided to make a monetary donation.

“I enjoy what I do, and it’s all because of what I learned at Logan,” Dr. Awe said. “This is how I can thank the organization that was beneficial to me and help the next generation of health care practitioners.”

He earmarked his gift for the construction and renovation of the Fuhr Science Center because of the impactful science courses he took at Logan, particularly biochemistry courses with John Gutweiler, PhD, Logan professor. He will be naming a faculty office in the renovated facility which will house anatomy labs, anatomage tables, technique labs, an imaging center and more.

A standout moment from his time as a student was when he transitioned from practicing at the Montgomery Health Center on campus to Logan’s outpatient health centers. At first he saw many similar cases: students who were suffering from low back pain and headaches due to sitting and studying for long periods of time. But when he moved to the outpatient health center, he had the opportunity to care for patients of all ages and backgrounds with an array of conditions.

“I treated a patient who still sends me a card that says, ‘Happy holidays from your acupuncture patient’ years after I treated her,” Dr. Awe said. “I was fortunate to be able to treat several other patients with pains related to cancer and others who didn’t have insurance.”

The clinical experience he received at Logan

prepared him to operate his own practice, Fayetteville Injury and Rehabilitation. He treats his patients using different therapies, including chiropractic adjustments, palliative modalities and manual therapy.

Dr. Awe always knew he wanted to work as a family practitioner due to the close relationship his own family had with their general practitioner. He often considers the saying that a good relationship as a chiropractor is one in which you “keep your patients for life.”

“My goal is to get my patients better and out the door, but if in the future they get hurt again in a different way, they will come back to see me throughout their lives,” Dr. Awe said.

Dr. Awe reflects on his time at Logan every day. He refers to the skills he learned for examinations and knowledge he gained in courses like Physical Diagnosis when he encounters a challenging case. But he especially values his experience participating in Clinical Methods where Jane Wibbenmeyer, DC (’88), Logan assistant professor; Robin Bozark, DC (’85), MA, DABCO, Logan professor; and Dana Underkofler-Mercer, DC (’98), MS, Logan professor and director of strategic partnerships for the College of Chiropractic invited students to extend their work outside class by conducting one-on-one patient interviews.

“Those experiences shaped what I do in my private practice,” Dr. Awe said. “It helped me talk to patients more about their pains and how to deal with all kinds of encounters. Logan and its instructors went over and above what was expected by allowing us these extra opportunities.”

As an alumnus Dr. Awe appreciates how his relationships with his instructors have evolved from instructor-to-student to friend-to-friend and peer-to-peer. He recalls a time when he asked his former preceptor, Erika Evans-Roland, DC, Logan clinician and assistant professor for advice on his first case of hot back as a solo practitioner.

“She assured me that I knew what I was doing,” Dr. Awe said. “Our relationship has strengthened. Those relationships don’t stop when you graduate.”

Dr. Awe encourages his fellow graduates to stay involved with Logan. In addition to giving back, he enjoys attending Logan University Symposium for continuing education opportunities, chiropractic exhibitors, networking and the chance to catch up with old classmates.

“Keeping in touch with Logan is the best way to continue relationships that you built,” he said. “Even if you live further away like I do, you can always rely on Logan’s faculty and your fellow graduates.”

He advises current students to give it their all during their days at Logan.

“Don’t just be present in class but make

the most of every learning opportunity and relationship,” Dr. Awe said.

One day he hopes to be involved in an integrated health care approach involving a partnership with other practitioners to provide even more services to his patients.

“I don’t work with sick people, but with people who are hurting,” Dr. Awe said. “The lines are blurred today between medical and chiropractic needs, and while I can offer the neuromusculoskeletal support, I’d love to partner with somebody who can come from the other side to provide the best for my patients.”

For now, Dr. Awe is content building his practice and giving back to his alma mater.

“I’m very appreciative of the huge opportunities Logan granted me and am thankful to be a donor, which allows me to be involved and contribute to the field I love,” he said.

“I chose to become a donor because I’m eternally grateful for what Logan gave to me. I wouldn’t be where I am today without Logan, and I wanted to give back.”

– Dr. Tyler Awe

Dr. Tyler Awe adjusts a patient at Fayetteville Injury and Rehabilitation.

Be the Best You Can Be: Remembering the Extraordinary Life of Dr. William Purser

In 1938 William Purser, DC (’54) decided to venture beyond the North Carolina tobacco farm where he was raised. Sixteen years old with a high school diploma in hand, he was ready to take on the world.

At first Dr. Purser hoped to join the Navy, but he was put on a waitlist. He took a job as an usher at a movie theater, where he met the love of his life, Lois “Boots” Blakemore. Then he transitioned to another position building ships in Wilmington, North Carolina. But it was not long before he was drafted to serve in World War II in 1946. He spent two years in the Philippines building landing docks for the invasion of Normandy.

While serving his country Dr. Purser began suffering from back pain. Inspired by the successful chiropractic care he received, he applied to what was then Logan Basic College of Chiropractic. Upon acceptance, he and Boots, who were newly married, moved to St. Louis. In 1954 Dr. Purser graduated second in his class and was the president of the Logan Student Council.

Dr. Purser and Boots moved to Portsmouth, Virginia, where “Doc” established a lucrative chiropractic practice. They had a child, Bill Purser Jr., and over the years the trio enjoyed traveling the world. With his pilot’s license, Dr. Purser flew them to destinations like Africa and South America.

“Dad made a lot of connections throughout his life, so it was not unusual for us to be welcomed by foreign dignitaries and treated to special tours,” Bill Jr. said. “A lot of parents might have left their kids at home, but not Dad. I know how fortunate I was, and I will always treasure the experiences we shared.”

Bill Jr. remembers his father as a man who liked to stay busy. “At night, after dinner and having treated patients all day, Dad would retreat into the family basement and engage in woodworking, building the desk and cabinets that he would use in his office.”

After his retirement from chiropractic in 1982, Dr. Purser and Boots moved to Florida, where he took up real estate. He, Boots and Bill Jr. developed a popular 65-acre, 500-site recreational vehicle campground north of Tampa.

“Dad always had an incredibly strong work ethic,” said Bill Jr. “But for him, it wasn’t work. He loved what he did, he worked hard, and he never gave up. That’s probably the thing that defined him most: his absolute refusal to ever give up on anything.”

Dr. Purser retired when he was 81. He died February 5, 2023, at the age of 101 in Tavares, Florida. “Dad passed with the contentment that comes from a life well lived,” Bill Jr. said.

Dr. Purser remained faithful to his motto, “Be the best you can be.” A generous supporter of Logan, he helped others do the same. He made significant financial contributions, including a $1 million gift for the construction of the William D. Purser, DC Center and referred more than a dozen students to Logan. In 2018 he attended Symposium and gifted an additional $1 million to the university. In 2021 Dr. Purser was among the inaugural recipients of the Spirit of Logan Distinguished Alumni Award.

“Chiropractic set Dad’s life in motion,” said Bill Jr. “He loved people and enjoyed helping them, and he wanted to ensure the spirit of caring that defined him lived on.”

Dr. William Purser graduated from Logan in 1954 and became a generous supporter of the university.

Four Receive Spirit of Logan Distinguished Alumni Awards

President Clay McDonald, DC (’82), MBA, JD

presented the 2022 and

2023

Spirit

of Logan

Distinguished Alumni Award to four accomplished alumni during the Awards and Scholarship Luncheon at Logan University’s Symposium 2023 on April 14.

The Spirit of Logan Distinguished Alumni Award is the highest distinction bestowed upon an alumnus for making a significant, lasting impact on Logan University. Winners are selected based on the criteria of leadership, philanthropy, industry achievement and service.

ARLAN FUHR, DC (’61) - 2022 Recipient

In addition to his generous support of Logan, Dr. Fuhr has made a significant impact on the entire chiropractic community. He is the founder and chairman of Activator Methods International and co-inventor of the Activator Adjusting Instrument and the Activator Method chiropractic technique. Utilized in more than 70 percent of all chiropractic clinics, the Activator Method is the world’s most widely used instrumental adjusting chiropractic technique.

“It is an honor to receive this award,” said Dr. Fuhr. “There is a lot of joy in giving, and Logan is a great institution to give to.”

HOWARD LOOMIS JR., DC (’67), FIACA - 2022 Recipient

A second-generation chiropractor, Dr. Loomis used his extensive knowledge of physiology, biochemistry and enzymology to develop a science-based method of determining nutritional stresses on the body, an educational format approved by the Wisconsin State Education Approval Board. In addition to being a sought-after speaker and prolific writer, Dr. Loomis has helped train thousands of health care professionals through the Food Enzyme Institute™.

“I have been involved with Logan for a long time and am so appreciative of the education I received,” said Dr. Loomis. “Earning this award is an honor, and I am thankful to leave behind a legacy.”

DOUGLAS COX, DC (’79), DABCO - 2023 Recipient ROY HILLGARTNER, DC (’69) - 2023 Recipient

Throughout his 40 years of practice Dr. Cox has served in numerous positions on the Virginia Chiropractic Association, including president from 1999 to 2000. He was elected Chiropractor of the Year by the Virginia Chiropractic Association in 1986 and 2000 and served as the Virginia representative of the American Chiropractic Association in 2001.

“While being a recipient of the Spirit of Logan Distinguished Alumni Award is truly an honor, helping make a difference in people’s lives, students’ lives and at Logan is rewarding enough,” Dr. Cox said.

Dr. Hillgartner has taught Doctor of Chiropractic students at Logan for 50 years and has operated his own practice in St. Louis since 1972. In addition to receiving numerous chiropractic awards, he has served as a member of the International Chiropractic Association and was appointed to the Missouri State Board of Chiropractic Examiners.

“I am incredibly appreciative and thankful for the opportunities I have had,” said Dr. Hillgartner. “The idea that one’s lifetime of practicing and teaching may have a positive impact on Logan’s future is a humbling thought.”

Visit our webpage to learn more about the Spirit of Logan Distinguished Alumni Award.

Logan Student, Recent Graduate Present Research at ACCRAC 2023 Conference

Trimester 7 Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) and Master of Science in Sports Science & Rehabilitation (MS-SSR) student

Janelle Hynes and recent graduate Kristin Miller, DC (’22) presented research at the 29th Annual Association of Chiropractic Colleges Educational and Research Agenda Conference (ACCRAC) March 23-25 in New Orleans. For them, delivering platform presentations to experts from educational, clinical and basic sciences backgrounds while learning about new and emerging research in chiropractic was an opportunity unlike any other.

Janelle Hynes

Janelle presented her study, “Functional MRI Brain Mapping of Manual Therapy in cLBP: A Narrative Review,” with Norman W. Kettner, DC (’80), DACBR, FICC, dean of research and professor emeritus of Logan’s Department of Radiology. Her research examined how manual therapy alters brain networks in chronic pain patients to decrease pain as well as emotions associated with pain.

“Chiropractors often overlook the emotional components of chronic pain when treating patients,” Janelle said. “It’s more than just a sensory experience— individuals suffering from chronic pain often have heightened emotional responses, such as fear with movement despite no tissue damage. This research shows manual therapy likely reduces clinical pain through modulation of multiple brain networks while optimizing patient clinical outcomes.”

In addition to sharing her own work, Janelle enjoyed attending presentations from Logan faculty members and researchers from other institutions during ACCRAC.

“It was exciting to make connections with other chiropractors involved in research and learn how they are pushing the profession forward,” Janelle said.

During her eighth trimester Janelle plans to continue conducting research while completing clinical rotations at Bloomington Sports & Wellness in Bloomington, Indiana. After graduation, her goal is to collaborate with her twin sister, Janette, who is pursuing doctorate degrees in human performance and neuroscience at Indiana University, on research about how chiropractic care can improve health outcomes for people on the autism spectrum.

“I hope every student at Logan has the chance to be involved in research so they can better understand and explain the importance of chiropractic care,” Janelle said. “The more research that supports what we do, the more credibility we will have with our patients as well as other health care professionals.”

Dr. Kristin Miller

Dr. Miller’s study, “Bridging the gap between biomedical and biopsychosocial models in chiropractic teaching clinics: A series of targeted educational interventions,” evaluated clinical students’ attitudes and knowledge on pain neuroscience, chronic back pain and patient-centered care before and after 50-minute lectures. She found that participants’ pain-based knowledge increased immediately following the 50-minute lectures, but data collected after 12 weeks showed improvements were not sustained.

“The results indicate sustained painbased competencies based on evidence

throughout a chiropractic program is likely more effective in creating change in students’ beliefs and attitudes toward chronic pain and patient care,” Dr. Miller said. “It also opens the door for more studies that evaluate the effectiveness of current programming.”

Dr. Miller collaborated with Patrick Boylan, DC, Logan clinician; Casey Mullen, DC, Logan integrated health care resident; Macy Randolph, DC, Logan integrated health care resident; Dr. Kettner; and Katherine Pohlman, DC, MS, PhD, director of research at Parker University to complete the research.

As a presenter at ACCRAC, Dr. Miller was invited to submit the study to the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) Paper Award Competition.

“It was thrilling to find out we won the NBCE Paper Award Competition at ACCRAC,” Dr. Miller said. “Now we have the opportunity to submit the manuscript to the Journal of Chiropractic Education Publishing research that could positively impact the future of chiropractic education would be a dream come true.”

Dr. Miller recently presented her study at the June 2023 Chiropractic Education Research Forum Conference. She is currently practicing in New Orleans.

“Every day is a learning experience,” Dr. Miller said. “I still heavily rely on everything I have learned and continue to learn from my mentors at Logan.”

Janelle Hynes

Drs. Kristin Miller (right) and Patrick Boylan at ACCRAC

Faculty from Logan’s Integrated Health Centers Publish Study in Pain Medicine

Bernadette Sheffield, MSOT, OTR/L, occupational therapist for Logan’s Integrated Health Centers; Kelsey Lewis, DC, staff chiropractor for Logan’s Integrated Health Centers; and Patrick Battaglia, DC, DACBR, Logan’s director of health policy and interdisciplinary care completed a study titled “Patient Outcomes from Multidisciplinary Chronic Pain Programs in Safety Net Clinics: A Scoping Review.” Recently published in Pain Medicine, the study examined pain-related outcomes from multidisciplinary programs for patients in the safety net suffering from chronic pain.

Patients within the safety net—a gap in health care services for uninsured or underinsured individuals—have an increased risk of experiencing chronic pain. Logan clinicians working within federally qualified and other community health centers in St. Louis provide person-centered, high-quality, conservative pain care to people who are part of this disadvantaged population.

“To me, one of our most important findings was that safety net patients generally felt satisfied with their experiences in multidisciplinary pain management programs. This supports greater adoption of these programs within safety net clinics such as community health centers.”

“Inspiration to conduct our research came from the stories we’ve heard from the patients we treat in Logan’s Integrated Health Centers,” Bernadette said. “We decided this study would help us better support them by increasing our understanding of the efficacy of multidisciplinary pain management programs within the safety net.”

Due to the limited yet varied data available on the topic, the research team decided to conduct a scoping review of existing literature. The scoping review was based on the question, “What are both the outcomes patients experience and the outcome measures utilized in multidisciplinary pain programs in safety net practices?”

The researchers combed through electronic databases as well as other sources like Google Scholar to find relevant quantitative and qualitative data. They also searched for any studies not referenced in academic databases by typing keywords into Google. After removing duplicates, they screened 472 records to determine their eligibility for inclusion in their study. Of all the articles reviewed, 10 fit the established criteria.

“Our scoping review was incredibly rigorous,” Dr. Lewis said. “Searching for the articles, which required a high level of

meticulousness and attention to detail, took about nine months to complete. This precision is one of the main reasons our study was accepted for publication in such a high-caliber journal.”

Of the 10 selected studies, three used qualitative measures, five utilized quantitative measures and two incorporated both. The researchers’ analysis of all the studies revealed multidisciplinary pain management programs in safety net settings had mixed results regarding pain, physical and psychological health, and quality of life. However, it also showed participating patients tended to experience positive outcomes.

“To me, one of our most important findings was that safety net patients generally felt satisfied with their experiences in multidisciplinary pain management programs,” Dr. Battaglia said. “This supports greater adoption of these programs within safety net clinics such as community health centers. However, this will only be possible with expanded health insurance coverage to support integrating and sustaining evidence-based multidisciplinary pain management at the primary care level.”

Bernadette, Dr. Lewis and Dr. Battaglia encourage the continued collection, measurement and analysis of primary and secondary outcomes of multidisciplinary pain management programs. They also agree additional research is needed to optimize chronic pain care for safety net patients and standardize the ways treatment efficacy is measured in clinics.

“This study opens the door for additional research opportunities,” Bernadette said. “With this study as a foundation, we can investigate everything from the composition of integrated health care teams to the specific interventions offered in the programs—all for the benefit of our patients.”

Scan the QR code at right to read the full study in Pain Medicine

Bernadette Sheffield

– Dr. Patrick Battaglia

Dr. Kelsey Lewis

Dr. Patrick Battaglia

SYMPOSIUM

Honoring Tradition, Shaping Our Future: Logan Symposium 2023

Thanks to nearly 600 attendees, 27 speakers, 40 exhibitors and 10 sponsors, Logan University hosted another successful Symposium April 13-16 on campus and at St. Louis Union Station.

With the theme “Honoring Tradition, Shaping Our Future,” the four-day event featured presentations from chiropractic and health care experts. They discussed a variety of relevant topics, including clinical biomechanics of spinal disorders, chiropractic care for adolescents and pregnant patients, microbiomes in gut health, chiropractic care for animals and more.

The Presidents’ Round Table with Logan President Clay McDonald, DC (‘82), MBA, JD returned for a second year and featured Ron Oberstein, DC, president of Life Chiropractic College West; Joseph Brimhall, DC, FICC, president of the University of Western States; and Weston Holzinger, DC (’16), MS, DABCI as moderator. The panel discussed ways to meet the needs of today’s students and how to prepare them

for an ever-changing marketplace.

“Students today are no longer willing to accept a one-size-fits-all approach to their education,” Dr. Brimhall said during the event. “They expect a return on investment—not just on their money, but their time.”

Symposium 2023 had a record number of young alumni in attendance. More than 70 alumni who graduated between 2019 and 2022 took part in the continuing education opportunities, exhibitor visits and networking the event offered.

“Symposium provided a unique opportunity for health care professionals to learn from and network with some of the leading minds in the industry,” said Amber Henry, EdD, director of continuing education at Logan University. “The event was a huge success, and we are proud to have brought

Save the date for Logan’s Symposium 2024 April 12-13 at St. Louis Union Station. Visit Logan.edu/Symposium for more information.

together such a talented and diverse group of professionals.”

Several awards were presented during Symposium 2023. Claire Johnson, DC, MSEd, PhD, DACBSP, FICC received the 2023 Dr. Beatrice B. Hagen Award. Douglas Cox, DC (’79), DABCO and Roy Hillgartner, DC (’69) were announced as the 2023 recipients of the Spirit of Logan Distinguished Alumni Award. Arlan Fuhr, DC (’61) and Howard F. Loomis Jr., DC (’67), FIACA were also honored for receiving the award in 2022.

By the Numbers

4 DAYS

2 LOCATIONS

10 SPONSORS

24 CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS OFFERED

593 ATTENDEES 40 EXHIBITORS 27 SPEAKERS 1 DOG

37 STATES AND PUERTO RICO REPRESENTED

Delynel N. Carmona Torres Shines in Disney+ Original Series

Delynel had done a few modeling jobs while growing up, but working in the entertainment industry never crossed her mind. However, when the opportunity to appear in a Disney+ original series arose, she jumped at the chance.

“I never thought about acting on a television show, let alone on a platform that is viewed worldwide,” Delynel said. “But when a contact I had reached out and said they needed an extra on a Disney+ series, I couldn’t say no.”

The Disney+ series, “@Gina Yei: #WithAllMyHeartAndMore” follows aspiring musician Gina on her journey at the prestigious Caribbean Music Institute. It is the first Disney+ series filmed completely in Puerto Rico for an entirely Spanish show.

Delynel was originally cast as an extra in one of the show’s beach volleyball scenes, but she ended up having lines too. She conversed with the protagonists of the series: a girl group nicknamed “Las Joyas.”

“I had no idea what to expect when they approached me with the lines,” said Delynel. “It was my first time acting, so the acting coach on set helped me rehearse and build confidence.”

While on set during her first day, Delynel had an interaction with the show’s director that she will never forget.

“Since I had originally been cast as an extra, I didn’t have as much makeup on as the lead girls because they didn’t think I was going to be on the screen that often,” Delynel said. “The director noticed this and told the makeup artists, ‘She is a Joya, so she should be at their level.’ I couldn’t believe the level of responsibility and trust they had in me. It was a crazy feeling.”

Although she felt nervous, Delynel

decided to toss her fears aside and focus on the experience, enjoying each moment.

“I really did have a lot of fun,” said Delynel. “Seeing and partaking in the filming process felt like being in a world completely different than reality.”

Reality did rear its head during a day of filming on a beach in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Temperatures were over 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat combined with multiple days of shooting and reshooting revealed a different side of show business.

“I learned that acting is just like any other job, and it can be very exhausting,” Delynel said. “I saw the cast make mistakes that caused scenes to start over, and we had to film each one over and over from different angles. It was more than I anticipated.”

The series premiered in early January 2023 and is available for streaming on Disney+ everywhere.

“I still can’t believe I get to say I participated in an episode for Disney+ in Puerto Rico in Spanish,” said Delynel. “The experience was indescribable.”

While she enjoyed her time as an actress, Delynel is committed to her future career in chiropractic.

“The degree I will obtain at Logan will allow me to become not only a great doctor but also a better human being,” Delynel said. “I would love to have my own chiropractic clinic in the future, but I am also open to opportunities and experiences that allow me to explore my passion for understanding our bodies, healing them and impacting lives with my hands.”

Delynel N. Carmona Torres’ resume currently reads, “bachelor’s degree in natural sciences from the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey, trimester 3 Doctor of Chiropractic student at Logan University, and Disney+ actress.”

“I still can’t believe I get to say I participated in an episode for Disney+ in Puerto Rico in Spanish. The experience was indescribable.”

– Delynel N. Carmona Torres

Delynel N. Carmona Torres waves the flag of Puerto Rico.

Class of April 2023

Jayden T. Montgomery Vice President

Brandon R. Dykstra Treasurer

Elaina Kamienski Secretary

Dillon V. Ashby

Emmanuel Acevedo González

Amber Banda

Simon C. Bokma Abigail Bokma

Megan R. Gotham Mattox

Christopher J. Gaertner

Anne Greenfield

Tyler D. Hendrix

Samuel T. Hamilton

Hannah Massey

Lindsay McDonald Japneet Mawi

Heather M. McQueenLauren Meyers

Dilyn M. Schooley Tyler A. Shearer

Samantha Jo L. Staton

Ethan Stanley Dodgen Swanson

Jacob A.G. Abu-Aita

Owen Fortney

Alyssa D. Martin

Robert Luke Shackelford President

Doctor of Chiropractic Graduates

Tyler Mrock Athletic Director

Jessica Ferguson Education Coordinator

Lauren T. Cheslog Education Coordinator

Eric J. Cunningham

Aaron M. Cook

Sahin Dzananovic Dusten D. Dalanyi

Jacob H. Bowman

Mason J. Motte

Adam W. Jackson

Rachel Iacofano

Bonnie K. Kragel

Victoria R. Kanel

Nicholas R. Henes

Ryan S. Rappe

Kalani Pihana

Elizabeth Rodriguez Wyatt A. Parker

Morganne Venters Jesse Wilkey Micah L. Weirich Nicholas Takis

Grant M. Weihrauch Athletic Director

Jorryn Schmitt

Rachel Engelke

Justin A. Mann

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREES

Human Biology

Tiffany Aguilar

Cum Laude

Tonya Ahtonen

Summa Cum Laude

Akindele Akinjolire

Cum Laude

Melanie L Atchley

Summa Cum Laude

Emma Barton

Tiffany Boehmer

Abram Brandwein

Magna Cum Laude

Celeste Elizabeth Culp

Summa Cum Laude

Guinevere DeJohn

Cum Laude

Jordan Dior Freeman

Magna Cum Laude

Serena T. Leahy

Kelby Melinda Mahan

Mariam Mazari

Heather McCurry

Daniel C. Meadows

Summa Cum Laude

Zachary Miller

Summa Cum Laude

JeAnna Pavlovich

Darlene Puckett

Summa Cum Laude

Katie Robertson

Cum Laude

Autum Snyder

Sara J Stahl

Summa Cum Laude

Madison Veronee

Cum Laude

Life Science

Spencer Corrona

Cum Laude

Morgan Cummins

Cum Laude

Christopher Dailey II

Denton Dearen

Andrea DeJarnett

Samuel Thomas Hamilton

Thomas Harper

Magna Cum Laude

Sienna Cheyenne McClure

Cady Elizabeth Perry

Magna Cum Laude

Brandon Smith

Jamie Tompkins

Virginia Vivit

MASTER OF SCIENCE DEGREES

Applied Nutrition & Dietetics

Gregory Garnet Alexander II

Hannah Christine Gravot*

Mandeep Kaur*

Lisa Danielle Rivera**

Geoffrey Samson**

Sheng Thao*

Health Informatics

Brittnee Boyer**

Michelle N. DiSabato**

Christina Martinez**

Patrice Ann Lumumba Moody*

Darnell Kay Pangio**

Naga Sowmya Panidapu**

Teresa Saxon**

Gerald Stephen

Michelle L. Suitor**

Audrey Teh**

Jullette Marie Wilkins**

Nutrition & Human Performance

Devon Bozeman*

Ebony Branch*

Bianca Ariel Bunners

Aaron Michael Cook

Zuleika Cordero Arbelo*

Krista L. Cowgill*

Emily Flecke*

Theresa Lynn Hamilton

Brittany M. Harris

Charles Howard Jackson

Danielle LaFlamme*

Ruben Lopez**

Alfredo Mafnas*

Amanda Nakamura

Chloe Palmquist

Martha Granger Stewart**

Nichole Marie Swiben**

Samantha Thompson

Kasey R Wasylyk*

David Bernard West, BA, DC*

Jesse Wilkey**

Holly Zinke**

Sports Science

& Rehabilitation

Paige Alvarez*

Richard Boggs

Zachary A. Cottam**

Sahin Dzananovic*

Cameron Elmore*

Stephanie Nichole Fletcher

Bryanna Kalani Geiger**

Charles Larry Gibbs Jr.**

Miguel Gonzalez

Samuel Holguin**

Moaz Howera**

Aaron Jackson**

Adam Wayne Jackson*

Amie Dofinihan Kadeba*

Danielle Marie Lorenscheit**

Frances Michelle Mejia

Kristen Elizabeth Montgomery**

Kourtney Janelle Moore

Erik Ojeda

Ronald Pierce

Raquel Rocha**

Pratik Soni**

Ethan Stanley

Dodgen Swanson*

Marah Tayeh*

Aleah Marie Turon**

Apdiel Omar Vazquez Cotto*

Fatih Velijoski*

Margret Rose Velijoski**

Alexia VonBank**

Alyxandra Beth Walters**

Strength & Conditioning

Aaron Bozarth**

Klaudean Dozier

Carson Kinney*

Austin Reid Kuennen**

Victoriano Antonio Mesa**

Logan Radik**

Samuel Roome**

DOCTOR OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS EDUCATION DEGREE

Kristina L. Petrocco-Napuli**

STUDENT & FACULTY AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

Doctor of Chiropractic

Academic Honors

Cum Laude

Emmanuel Acevedo González

Dusten Dryden Dalanyi

Jessica Ferguson

Owen Fortney

Christopher John Gaertner

Adam Wayne Jackson

Alyssa Danielle Martin

Heather Marie McQueen

Lauren Meyers

Tyler Mrock

Dodgen Swanson

Magna Cum Laude

Lauren Taylor Cheslog

Brandon Ross Dykstra

Elaina Kamienski

Victoria Renee Kanel

Jayden Trent Montgomery

Morganne Venters

Summa Cum Laude

Rachel Iacofano

Hannah Massey

Lindsay McDonald

Robert “Luke” Shackelford

Tyler A Shearer

Jesse Wilkey

Valedictorian Academic Excellence Award

Robert “Luke” Shackelford

Outstanding Faculty Awards College of Chiropractic

Outstanding Pre-Clinic Faculty Award

Jane Wibbenmeyer, DC

College of Chiropractic Outstanding Clinic Faculty Award

Mero Nunez, Jr., DC

University Basic Science

Outstanding Faculty Award

Sarah Luderer, PhD

College of Health Sciences

Outstanding Faculty Award

Darren Rauscher, EdD, MBA

University Mission Awards

Diversity and Inclusion Award

Megan Renee Gotham Mattox

Jullette Marie Wilkins

Evidence Informed Award

Heather Marie McQueen

Aaron Bozarth

Celeste Elizabeth Culp

Darnell Kay Pangio

Leaders Made Award

Megan Renee Gotham Mattox

Charles Larry Gibbs Jr.

Kristina L. Petrocco-Napuli

Martha Granger Stewart

Logan RESPECT Award

Robert “Luke” Shackelford

Danielle Marie Lorenscheit

Samuel Roome

Teresa Saxon

Sheng Thao

Service Award

Jacob Austin-George Abu-Aita

Daniel C. Meadows

Lisa Danielle Rivera

President’s Honor Roll

Brittnee Boyer

Lauren Taylor Cheslog

Bryanna Kalani Geiger

Moaz Howera

Rachel Iacofano

Austin Reid Kuennen

Christina Martinez

Hannah Massey

Lindsay McDonald

Zachary Miller

Kristen Elizabeth Montgomery

Darnell Kay Pangio

Teresa Saxon

Robert “Luke”Shackelford

Pratik Soni

Hugh B. Logan Awards

Hugh B. Logan Outstanding Staff Award

Stacia Rosen, MA

Hugh B. Logan Outstanding Faculty Award

Marcus DeGeer, DC, MD

Hugh B. Logan Clinic Excellence Award

Jesse Wilkey

**With High Distinction

*With Distinction

Summer 2023 Doctor of Chiropractic White Coat Ceremony

Summer 2023 Doctor of Chiropractic White Coat Ceremony

UNDER THE

Faculty and Staff News

Congratulations to …

Christine Goertz, DC, PhD, member of Logan’s Board of Trustees, who published an article titled, “We’re Treating Low Back Pain All Wrong” in MedPage Today, a trusted source for clinical news coverage across the medical specialties.

Student News

Congratulations to …

The Logan University Garden Club, which successfully hosted its first plant sale on campus March 21.

Alumni Notes

Congratulations to …

David Gray, DC (’74), who was inducted into the Montana Chiropractic Association Hall of Fame. Dr. Gray practices in Missoula, Montana, and is active in civic activities and service organizations.

Class of 1983 Logan alumni, who celebrated their 40th graduation anniversary by visiting campus for a tour.

In Memoriam

Class of 1960

Kenneth Pangle, DC August 21, 2023

Class of 1979

David Virgil Dungan Jr., DC June 1, 2023

Class of 1982

Brent Bost, DC April 22, 2023

Class of 1983

David Ellenbogen, DC April 8, 2023

Class of 1984

Elizabeth Sisk, DC May 19, 2023

Class of 1990

Richard Thalman, DC April 18, 2023

Class of 1998

Donald Fitzgerald, DC April 4, 2023

Class of 2010

Heather Mestdagh, DC May 17, 2023

Dr. Christine Goertz

Members of the Logan University Garden Club

Logan alumni from the class of 1983 recently visited campus.

The Logan community mourns the loss of George P. McAndrews, JD, who passed away on April 7, 2023, at the age of 87. George left his mark on the chiropractic profession after serving as both trial attorney and lead counsel for the chiropractic plaintiffs in the landmark 14-year antitrust case Wilk et al. vs. AMA et al. As co-founder of McAndrews, Held & Malloy in Chicago, he defended chiropractors and the chiropractic profession many times during his 55-year career, including ACA et al. vs. Trigon Healthcare et al. and Chinnici vs. Central DuPage Hospital Assn.

George’s father and his brother Jerome were both chiropractors. In 2008 the NCMIC Foundation created the Jerome F. McAndrews, DC, Memorial Research Fund Award recognizing his contributions to the scientific and practical advancement of the study of chiropractic. To honor the contributions of both McAndrews brothers, NCMIC renamed the award to the George P. and Jerome F. McAndrews Memorial Research Fund Award. To support the future of chiropractic in George’s honor, donations can be made on NCMIC’s website via the QR code at right.

Logan offers its condolences to the family and friends of Gary Frank Ward, DC (’62), who passed away June 2, 2023, at 85 years old. Dr. Ward was a longtime supporter of Logan and an active member of the former Logan College of Chiropractic Alumni Association. From 1977 to 1980 he served on the association’s Board of Directors, which established the STAR Program. This program encouraged alumni to support Logan with funds that allowed faculty and staff to purchase items needed in the classroom or for research.

Dr. Ward practiced at the Ward Chiropractic Clinic in Farmington, Missouri, with his wife, Lois Ward, DC (’63) from 1965 to 2007. Scan the QR code at right to learn more about Dr. Ward’s life.

Logan extends its sympathies to Marcus DeGeer, DC, MD, professor for Logan’s College of Chiropractic for the loss of his mother-in-law, Judy Clemente, who passed away July 27, 2023.

Correction

In the Under the Tower section of the spring 2023 issue, the LCP designation for Patrick Montgomery, DC, MS, LCP, FASA, FICC, Logan professor, was spelled out incorrectly. LCP stands for Legion of Chiropractic Philosophers. Logan regrets the error.

Industry Organizations Advance Chiropractic in US and Around the World

ACA Celebrates Reintroduction of Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act

The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) has made great strides in its fight to modernize chiropractic coverage under Medicare. On March 14 both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate reintroduced the Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act. This legislation, introduced by Representatives Gregory Steube, Brian Higgins, Mark Alford and John Larson and Senators Richard Blumenthal and Kevin Cramer would allow Medicare beneficiaries access to the chiropractic profession’s broad-based, non-drug approach to pain management. As of now the House bill (H.R. 1610) has gained 64 cosponsors and the Senate bill (S. 799) has gained eight cosponsors. To learn more and contact your representatives in Congress to urge them to support the bill, visit MedicareModernization.org.

ACA has prepared for the 2023 Student Leadership Conference, an annual event featuring two days of educational and networking opportunities for chiropractic students from across the country. This year’s event will be held September 29-October 1 at Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington, Minnesota. For more information visit ACAToday.org/SLC23.

Continued on page 38

Dr. Michael Martin ACA President

George P. McAndrews

Dr. Gary Frank Ward

Industry Organizations Advance Chiropractic in US and Around the World

In October ACA will host National Chiropractic Health Month with the theme “Chiropractic: Relieve, Restore, Resume.” The theme will promote the use of non-drug approaches to alleviate pain and restore function, helping people get off the sidelines and resume the activities that matter to them most. Visit ACAToday.org/NCHM for more information.

FICS Hosts Successful Global Sports Chiropractic Symposium

become a beacon for sports chiropractic education and representation.

Logan University has always been one of FICS’ greatest supporters. Logan students have benefited from mentoring programs, networking opportunities and discounts on courses. Robert “Luke” Shackelford, DC (’23), who just graduated from Logan in April, had the experience of a lifetime attending The World Games in Alabama in 2022. In fact, Dr. Shackleford secured a position as an associate with one of the chiropractors he worked with at The World Games, jump-starting his career.

complementary and integrative medicine, disability and rehabilitation, and global health workforce departments.

As the International Federation of Sports Chiropractic/ Fédération

Internationale de Chiropratique du Sport

(FICS) 2023

Global Sports Chiropractic

Symposium wraps up, I want to thank our speakers, staff, volunteers and long-term sponsors. Without your support FICS would not be able to host events that bring people from around the world together to connect, share inspirations and learn from leading sports chiropractors. If you missed us at the event—which took place June 17-18 in Paris—we will be releasing the sessions as an online course later this year.

At recent executive meetings our newly elected president, Dr. Martin Isaksson, reflected on FICS’ journey over the last six years. He noted that it has grown into a mature, transparent and inclusive international organization that has

As sports chiropractic continues to advance at international events across the globe, we are working to develop more opportunities for our membership. Visit our website, FICS.Sport, and reach out to us at Admin@FICSport.org to get involved.

WFC Attends World Health Assembly, Plans for 17th Biennial Congress

The WFC also contributed to a joint statement urging support for a resolution to strengthen rehabilitation in health systems that was presented on the assembly floor.

The WFC is also excited to announce that Katie de Luca, MAppSc, PhD has been named the new chair of WFC’s Disability and Rehabilitation Committee. Dr. de Luca is a senior lecturer at Central Queensland University in Brisbane, Australia, who has authored numerous peer-reviewed journal articles. Most recently she was a primary author on a low back pain paper published in The Lancet.

In May the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) was represented at the 76th World Health Assembly by a delegation that included WFC President John Maltby, DC, FICA and SecretaryGeneral Richard Brown, DC, LLM, FRCC, FICC, FBCA, FEAC. During a busy week of meetings, they collaborated with representatives of the healthy aging, traditional,

The WFC recently published three new position statements on tobacco use, diet and nutrition, and injury prevention. The organization was a strong advocate of the recent World No Tobacco Day held May 31, inspiring chiropractors around the world to incorporate health promotion into their practices.

Plans are advancing for the 17th WFC Biennial Congress, which will be held October 11-14, 2023, on the Gold Coast of Australia. The draft academic program has been published, and attendees can look forward to three days packed with inspiring keynote presentations, outstanding plenary sessions, stimulating workshops, groundbreaking research and an unmissable social program. For details and registration, visit WFCCongress2023.org.au.

WO RLD FEDERATION OF CHIROPRAC TIC

WFC President Dr. John Maltby at the World Health Assembly

Dr. Keith Overland FICS Secretary General

Dr. Richard Brown WFC Secretary-General

Community Celebrates Logan Park Opening

Logan University celebrated the opening of Logan Park on its campus on June 21. Community members joined Logan faculty, staff and students to enjoy the 4-acre park’s playground, trail, pavilion and pickleball court for the first time.

“We’re very proud to have the park in this neighborhood,” said Logan President Clay McDonald, DC (’82), MBA, JD. “It is an honor for Logan to serve the community of Chesterfield and those around us.”

While speaking at the opening, Chesterfield Mayor Bob Nation said providing more opportunities for recreation will enhance residents’ lives while also increasing property values.

“I think this is a tremendous cooperative agreement that will benefit not only the students and faculty of Logan University but also the residents of Chesterfield,” Bob said.

Aaron Wahl, DC (’04), member of the Chesterfield City Council and owner of Wahl Family Chiropractic also attended the opening. He is proud the university donated the green space.

“This is a great example of private and public cooperation,” Dr. Wahl said. “We see a private organization and a governmental agency working together to provide something useful for the community.”

1851 Schoettler Road | Chesterfield, MO 63017