ATSU proudly celebrates National Osteopathic Medicine Week
Posted: April 16, 2025
This week, we join osteopathic physicians, students, and educators across the country in celebrating National Osteopathic Medicine (NOM) Week. This is a special time to reflect on the unique principles and profound impact of osteopathic medicine, and there is no better place to celebrate than A.T. Still University.
We stand on historic ground. ATSU’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM) holds the distinct honor of being the founding school of osteopathic medicine. It was here, in Kirksville, Missouri, where A.T. Still, DO, pioneered a revolutionary approach to healthcare focused on whole person wellness, the body’s innate ability to heal, and the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. We carry Dr. Still’s legacy forward every day.
Our pride extends across the university. ATSU-KCOM and ATSU’s School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona, Arizona School of Health Sciences, College of Graduate Health Studies, Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health, Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health, and College for Healthy Communities are consistently recognized for their success in fulfilling a core part of our mission: preparing graduates who go on to practice in underserved communities. This commitment to service is a testament to the dedication of our students, excellence of our curriculum, and unwavering support provided by each of you.
Furthermore, our Kirksville campus is home to The Museum of Osteopathic Medicine, a treasure trove preserving our rich history and heritage. This vital resource ensures the story of osteopathic medicine, its challenges, and its triumphs are remembered and shared, inspiring future generations of healers. For NOM Week, the museum is highlighting Dr. Still’s treatment table. We encourage you to visit the museum this week, or whenever you are in Kirksville, to learn more about these pieces of osteopathic history.
Your work – whether in teaching, research, clinical care, administration, or support services – directly contributes to advancing osteopathic principles and fulfilling Dr. Still’s vision. You are essential to educating the next generation of compassionate, skilled osteopathic physicians and health professionals who embody our mission.
Thank you for your dedication, passion, and commitment to A.T. Still University and the osteopathic profession. Let’s take this week to celebrate our remarkable history, our impactful present, and the bright future of osteopathic medicine.
Yours in service,
Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84
Chancellor