Mamie E. Johnston, DO (COM 1917)
In terms of historical significance and contribution to KCU, very few graduates rival Mamie E. Johnston, DO. In 1917, Dr. Johnston became the first graduate from the Kansas City College of Osteopathy and Surgery, now KCU. Dr. Johnston continued her education when the University instituted its new four-year curriculum, and graduated again with the class of 1918.
If graduating twice in a two-year span wasn’t enough, Dr. Johnston became a fixture at the University. In 1919, she joined the KCU faculty, teaching gynecology and pediatrics for 47 years. In 1940, the Johnston Hall science building opened, named in her honor. Retiring in 1981 at the age of 92, Dr. Johnston practiced osteopathic medicine for 64 years. She passed away on November 6, 1986.
In 2010 the Mamie E. Johnston, DO, FACOP, Creative Medical Art in Teaching Award provides funding for students, interns, residents, fellows, faculty and other professional staff at KCU to explore the arts. The award was established by our March featured alum, Dr. Betty Jo White.
“I will never forget the first time she lectured to our class,” said Dr. White. “The simple act of her walking into our classroom generated a buzz of awe and a deep respect from us all. She was the first professional woman to inspire me.”
The award encourages recipients to express themselves in ways not included in the conventional medical school curriculum, while enhancing lifelong connections between the art and science of medicine.
“I was privileged to have been her student, and am privileged to honor her memory,” said Dr. White.
