February 2018: From the Desk of the President

By Marc B. Hahn, DO, FAOCA, President and CEO Feb 21, 2018
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From the Desk
of the President 
February 2018

Marc B. Hahn, DO
President and Chief Executive Officer

Greetings KCU Family:

Although our Midwestern winter persists in earnest, KCU continued to weather the cold this past month with no signs of slowing down. Read about our many activities and the latest news below, which underscore our vibrant university community. 

KCU 2017 Annual Report2017 Annual Report Available Online

We begin by sharing our 2017 Annual Report, which provides a context for our university's many initiatives during the last fiscal year based upon the foundational goals set forth in our 2017 - 2021 KCU Strategic Plan. The report, "Applying a Wider Lens," acknowledges our task at hand to become a more comprehensive health sciences university, preparing students to succeed in an ever-changing health care environment. We are excited about all that we have accomplished and look forward to additional activities and initiatives that will ensure our continued growth in health sciences education. View the 2017 annual report. 

Vance JohnsonGood Medicine: NFL's Vance Johnson and KCU Alum Dr. Mark Twardowski

Former Denver Broncos' wide receiver Vance Johnson and Mark Twaradowski, DO (COM '88), recently visited our Kansas City campus to share their story of inspiration and healing to our students, faculty and staff. Johnson detailed his life's journey through addiction and recovery aided by Twardowski, who in keeping with the true philosophy of osteopathic medicine, thoughtfully and successfully treated Vance in mind, body and spirit. Their story of the bond between patient and practitioner is a testament to the challenges faced and overcome by both, as they worked together to deliver Johnson on the right side of a life-threatening journey. The presentation was live streamed to our Joplin campus, providing the opportunity to share learning experiences between both locations. Watch the presentation.          

Dr. Edward LoniewskiRemembering Dr. Edward Loniewski
                                  
We regret the passing of Edward Loniewski, DO, a 1957 graduate of KCU and former president of the American Osteopathic Association. Loniewski was active within the osteopathic medical community in Michigan, where he founded Tri-County Orthopedics and served in varying leadership capacities advancing osteopathic medicine throughout the state. He was former chairperson for the Michigan Osteopathic College Foundation, which helped establish the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine as the first publicly funded osteopathic college in the country. We extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends. Read more.
 
Be sure to stay connected with your university! Follow me @KCUMBpresident to learn more about the latest KCU initiatives and updates in the osteopathic profession.

Hahn Signature

SMS ClinicKCU Partnership Brings Health Care to Shawnee Mission School District

Barriers to receiving adequate health care often include financial and transportation obstacles. Within the Shawnee Mission School District, steps are being taken to address both, especially during this extreme flu season. Through our collaboration with Health Partnership Clinic (HPC), students within the district can take advantage of physical and behavioral health services two days a week at the clinic location within Merriam Park Elementary. Anne VanGarsse, MD, KCU assistant dean of Clinical Affairs/vice chair of Primary Care and chief health officer for HPC talks about the program in a KCTV-5 story.

HoltKCU Alumnus Featured on The Ellen Show

Ron Holt, DO (COM '93), had a once-in-a-lifetime experience when he was selected by the producers of The Ellen DeGeneres Show to be part of a special 300-person audience. The audience was comprised solely of individuals active in bettering the communities in which they live and work through the "One Million Acts of Good" campaign. Holt, a board-certified psychiatrist, motivational speaker and author, advocates for the treatment and care of members within the LGBTQ community. Learn more about his experience and advocacy.

Hahn and KloehnStudent Doctor Ian Kloehn Shares Story of Inspiration with KCU Board

First-year KCU medical student Ian Kloehn is an inspiration. During the February meeting of the KCU Board of Trustees, Kloehn presented his remarkable story to the board and other faculty and staff attendees. Refusing to let a disability stand in his way, Kloehn excels in all that he does and epitomizes the very essence of hard work and determination. Read more about this remarkable student doctor. 

Awesome AmbitionsAwesome Ambitions Visits KCU Campus

KCU was pleased to host a group of 8th through 12th grade young women for a day of sharing and learning in cooperation with the Awesome Ambitions project. Awesome Ambitions introduces young women to education and vocation opportunities across a wide range of career choices. On campus, the young women spent time with KCU students and faculty learning more about health care in education and as a profession. Watch the video.

Med Student For A DayKC High School Students Become Med Students For A Day

More than 60 Kansas City high school students converged on KCU's Kansas City campus February 8 to become a "Med Student For A Day." Since 2011, KCU has participated in the program, which seeks to inspire a new generation of medical students, opening their eyes to the possibility of pursuing a degree and profession in the health sciences. Read more.

Dr. Sarah Getch

Dr. Sarah Getch Explains Seasonal Affective Disorder

More than just winter blues, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a major depressive disorder affecting an estimated 10 million people in the U.S., according to Psychology Today. Sarah Getch, PhD, KCU program director, Health Service Psychology, talked about the disorder and explained possible treatment options to Fox4 News. View our  video.
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