Connecting with Dr. Lester Partna Dr. Lester Partna has been a staple in the UWS chiropractic sciences department since 1989 and embodies what it means to Take the Lead both in his professional and personal life. Learn more about the renaissance man, (DJ) Dr. Partna. What inspired you to pursue a career in the field of chiropractic? I was a teenager when I was first exposed to chiropractic. My mom was helped significantly by a chiropractor when other methods of treating her low back pain had been unsuccessful. As I learned more about chiropractic, it was the concept of conservative health care, along with the dramatic results that I witnessed in my mom that fueled my journey toward this exceptional profession. By the time I graduated from high school, my career goals were clear.
institution, and because they advocated and taught a broad-scope, patient-centered chiropractic model. Those are still the characteristics of the institution which I find to be the most compelling and which represent the most positive way forward for the profession. What is a favorite memory you have from your time working at UWS? The daily experience of being in the classroom with eager future chiropractic physicians is energizing and fulfilling in a way that, after 26 years, has created a rich mental scrapbook of great memories. I also think of the many extracurricular UWS events that have been so enjoyable: golf tournaments, barbecues, commencement ceremonies and so many others. As I reflect on my years at UWS, I believe that my true satisfaction ultimately revolves around the relationships that have been developed with so many students and graduates over so many years. Of particular delight, in recent years, is to be able to teach the children of some of my former students.
What drives your passion for chiropractic education here at UWS?
What is one main pearl of wisdom you hope your students take away from your instruction?
I chose to attend Western States because of its reputation as a science-based chiropractic
Keep learning, while maintaining a sense of intellectual humility. As Chinese philosopher
22
in Touch
The magazine for the University of Western States community.
