The organization that oversees these residency programs, formerly called Still OPTI, will now be known by the ATSU-KCOM name. The change was approved by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and helps prospective residents more easily identify the schools and hospitals involved with each residency program.
“This approval represents an important step forward for our institution and our residency programs,” said Richard LaBaere, DO, MPH, FAODME, FNAOME, designated institutional official for ATSU-KCOM. “By aligning our graduate medical education programs more closely with the ATSU-KCOM name, we reinforce the strength of our osteopathic heritage, academic mission, and commitment to preparing exceptional physicians.”
Going forward, each residency program’s name will include both ATSU-KCOM and the name of its clinical partner. Sites include Northeast Regional Medical Center (NRMC) in Kirksville, Missouri, and Rocky Vista University (RVU) in Englewood, Colorado. The updated names apply across specialties, including family medicine, internal medicine, dermatology, and osteopathic neuromusculoskeletal medicine.
Kent Blanke, DO, director of medical education at NRMC, said the new names better show how closely the programs work together.
“Our residents benefit from outstanding clinical training opportunities, while also being connected to the legacy and academic excellence of ATSU-KCOM,” Dr. Blanke said. “This rebranding strengthens that identity and helps prospective residents immediately recognize the quality and depth of our partnerships.”
Scott Wilkie, DO, program director at RVU, said the change also reinforces the shared values among the partner institutions.
“This change highlights the collaboration and shared educational values that support our residents and ultimately benefit the communities they serve,” Dr. Wilkie said.
Sydney Mendoza is a student in A.T. Still University’s Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) Doctor of Audiology program, set to graduate in 2029. A Pomona, California native, she earned her bachelor of science in speech and hearing science from Arizona State University in 2025. Mendoza has a personal connection to ATSU – her mother earned her doctorate here – and she’s continuing that legacy while serving as fundraising chair for the Student Academy of Audiology (SAA), a member of the Student Academy of Doctors of Audiology (SADA), and a student ambassador.
Why did you choose ATSU-ASHS Doctor of Audiology program?
“I chose ATSU because it has always held a special place in my heart. My mom earned her doctorate there, so I grew up hearing about the incredible education and supportive environment the faculty provided. As I learned more about the program myself, I saw that the professors truly care about their students; not just about helping them pass classes, but about making sure they understand their field, think critically, and grow into compassionate, knowledgeable doctors.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“One of my favorite parts about being an ATSU student is the opportunity to connect with students from other healthcare programs and build relationships outside of audiology. I enjoy sharing what audiologists do and helping others better understand our profession, since it is often a smaller field that doesn’t receive much attention despite the important role we play in patient care. I also appreciate the sense of community created through student life events, including open houses, food truck and coffee truck visits, and the therapy dogs that come to campus during finals week. These events make campus feel welcoming and help create a fun, supportive environment.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU helping prepare you for your career?
“Professionally, I hope to make a meaningful impact in my patients’ lives by building relationships where they feel truly heard, understood, and cared for. I want every patient to leave my office feeling more confident and connected because of the care they received. One day, I also hope to take over my mom’s private practice, Optimum Audiology, and continue providing compassionate, patient-centered care to our communities. ATSU is preparing me for this career by giving me a strong clinical foundation, hands-on experiences, and supportive faculty who challenge me to think critically, grow professionally, and become the best audiologist I can be.”
Why did you choose to join different student organizations? You have a role with the Student Academy of Audiology (SAA) as fundraising chair on the board, and are a member of Student Academy of Doctors of Audiology (SADA).
“I joined SAA and SADA to become more involved in the audiology profession and connect with my classmates and future colleagues. As the fundraising chair for SAA, I enjoy helping organize fundraising efforts that support student events and activities, but one of my favorite parts of being involved is attending the social events and building relationships with my fellow classmates and future colleagues. Through SADA, I have gained a better understanding of professional advocacy and the future of audiology. Being involved in both organizations has helped me grow both personally and professionally.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I became a student ambassador because I wanted to help prospective students feel welcomed and supported as they begin their journey into the program. I know how valuable it is to have someone who has been through the process and can answer questions honestly about classes, clinic, and student life. I enjoy being a friendly, approachable resource and helping future students feel more confident and excited about joining the program.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Cooking, baking, gardening, thrifting, playing records, and hanging out with my dog, Ham.”
It is with sadness I share with you the passing of John Egbert Krogh, PhD, longtime faculty member and administrative dean of A.T. Still University’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Krogh passed away on August 19 at age 91. He joined KCOM’s faculty in 1976 and taught anatomy and conducted research for more than two decades. He continued his dedication to medical education after his retirement in 1998, serving as a dean for medical student rotations in Utah and later returning to the classroom to teach at Provo College. Many in our University community will also remember Dr. Krogh as one of two survivors of the 2004 Corporate Airlines Flight 5966 crash, which claimed the lives of 13 people, including six members of the KCOM community. Following the tragedy, Dr. Krogh spoke openly about compassion, healing, and his gratitude for the care and support he received from the ATSU community.
Dr. Krogh will be remembered for his dedication to students, his kindness and genuine care for others, and his lifelong commitment to education. He continued to find ways to support medical education throughout his life, including his decision to donate his body for medical education following his death. His legacy will live on through the many students, colleagues, and others whose lives he touched. On behalf of the entire ATSU family, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Krogh family, his friends, and former colleagues during this difficult time. The obituary and information regarding Dr. Krogh’s funeral services may be found here: John Egbert Krogh.
Yours in service,
Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84 Chancellor
It is with sadness I share with you the passing of William G. Anderson, DO, a trailblazing osteopathic physician, educator, and civil rights leader. Dr. Anderson passed away on August 16 at age 98. He made an extraordinary impact on our nation and the osteopathic medical profession. As a leader of the historic Albany Movement during the Civil Rights Movement, Dr. Anderson later became the first Black surgery resident in Detroit and established a successful surgical practice in Michigan. In 1994, he made history again as the first Black president of the American Osteopathic Association, having already served for two decades on the AOA Board of Trustees.
Dr. Anderson’s commitment to service and opportunity extended to future generations of osteopathic physicians. In 1998, he established the William G. Anderson, DO, Scholarship Fund through the American Osteopathic Foundation to support minority osteopathic medical students who champion health equity. His legacy of courage, compassion, leadership, and service will continue through the many lives he touched and the physicians he inspired. I encourage you to learn more about Dr. Anderson’s remarkable life and contributions to our profession here: AOA mourns passing of Civil Rights Movement leader and influential physician William G. Anderson, DO.
On behalf of the entire ATSU family, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Anderson family, his many friends, and colleagues.
Yours in service,
Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84 Chancellor
Gwendolyn Miller is a student in A.T. Still University’s College for Healthy Communities’ Central Coast Physician Assistant program, set to graduate in 2027. A Pleasant Hill, California native, she earned her bachelor of science in nutrition science from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 2025. Before beginning the program, Miller worked in healthcare on the Central Coast, and she now serves as a student ambassador, building connections with prospective students throughout the region, including at her alma mater, Cal Poly.
Why did you choose ATSU-CHC’s Central Coast Physician Assistant program (CCPA)?
“I chose ATSU because it felt like the perfect fit for both my personal values and professional goals. After working in healthcare on the Central Coast, I knew I wanted to stay in the region and eventually serve the community as a primary care PA. As a nutrition science major, I also appreciated the program’s osteopathic philosophy and emphasis on treating the whole person. I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to work alongside several ATSU-CHC CCPA graduates, and current students gave me an authentic perspective on the program. Their mentorship solidified my decision to become part of the ATSU family.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“One of my favorite things about being an ATSU student is the incredible sense of community. PA school is challenging, but having such a supportive group of classmates has made the experience so much fun. My best friends, Gianna Novelli, Claire Dicke, and Kayla Montoya. Gianna, Claire, and I all attended Cal Poly and worked together at a family medicine clinic in San Luis Obispo, so we were beyond excited to continue our journey together at ATSU. Kayla joined us from out of state, and we loved welcoming her to the Central Coast and making her feel at home. Some of my favorite memories have been studying together at the beach, taking weekend trips to Big Sur, paddle boarding in Morro Bay, hiking the trails in Pismo Beach, and celebrating each other’s successes every step of the way. The friendships I’ve made at ATSU are something I’ll cherish long after graduation, and they’ve shown me that while PA school is rigorous, it can also be full of adventure, laughter, lifelong friendships and future bridesmaids.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU helping prepare you for your career?
“My dream is to become a primary care PA on the Central Coast and give back to the community that has shaped me both personally and professionally. Through my experiences working in local clinics, I’ve seen how meaningful it is to build lasting relationships with patients and be someone they can trust throughout every stage of life. I hope to provide compassionate, whole person healthcare while helping improve access to primary care in our region. ATSU has reinforced that passion through its mission-driven curriculum, incredible faculty, and strong connections within the Central Coast healthcare community. Every day, I feel like I’m becoming the kind of provider I always hoped to be.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I became a student ambassador to build stronger connections with my classmates, support and encourage pre-PA students throughout the application process, and help prospective students see that PA school is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. I wanted to continue building relationships with undergraduate students across the Central Coast and hope to inspire more future healthcare providers to stay and serve our local communities, ultimately helping improve access to care in the region.
“One of my favorite parts of being a student ambassador has been connecting with prospective students. I’ve had the opportunity to represent ATSU at the Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Graduate School Fair and speak with members of the Cal Poly Pre-PA Club (my alma mater), as well as welcome the Cal Poly Pre-PA Club during their visit to our campus.
“As a pre-PA student, I remember how overwhelming the application process and choosing a program felt. Because of that, I enjoy having honest conversations with prospective students, sharing my own experiences, and reassuring them. I love giving them an authentic look at life at ATSU and as a PA student, answering their questions, and hopefully making the journey feel a little less intimidating. One thing I especially want future students to know is that PA school can be incredibly fun. Although it is academically challenging, I’ve been able to continue surfing, hiking, traveling, spending time with friends and family, and doing the things I love outside of school. Finding that balance has made my experience even more rewarding, and I hope it reassures prospective students that it’s possible to work hard while still enjoying life. It’s incredibly rewarding to help future students feel excited and confident about pursuing their dream of becoming a PA.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Outside of ATSU, I love spending time outdoors and staying active. I enjoy surfing for fun and competitively and also love diving, hiking, camping, and exploring California’s beautiful coastline. Traveling is another passion of mine. I’ve had the opportunity to visit 17 countries (and counting!), and I love experiencing different cultures, foods, and perspectives. I also enjoy being involved in my community as an active member of the Central Coast NP/PA Club, where I have the opportunity to connect with healthcare professionals and continue learning outside the classroom.”
Ashwini Anupindi, OTD, ’28, is a student in A.T. Still University’s Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) Doctor of Occupational Therapy program. A Houston, Texas native, she earned her bachelor of science in integrative physiology from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 2024 before continuing her education at ATSU. Beyond the classroom, Anupindi serves as OT chair of the OT/PT Pro Bono Clinic Board and works as a student ambassador, helping guide prospective students through their own paths to ATSU.
Why did you choose the ATSU-ASHS Doctor of Occupational Therapy program?
“I chose ATSU for its dedication to wanting students to succeed clinically and educationally. I wanted to continue into a smaller and more intimate academic environment and ATSU has allowed me to learn and grow into a client-centered clinician. The faculty at ATSU truly wants to see the students succeed and exposes us to new ways of teaching and learning.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“I enjoy having a space to learn new things alongside my cohort. We all come from such diverse backgrounds both personally and educationally that we can teach one another new ways to see the world. I also enjoy how close the faculty is to the students. They truly want to see them succeed and they foster a relationship where students are encouraged to ask for guidance.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU helping prepare you for your career?
“After graduating, my long term goal is to open up my own pediatric occupational therapy practice with an emphasis in sensory integration and hand therapy. ATSU is helping me achieve this goal through hands-on opportunities in our pro bono clinic.”
Why did you choose to join different student organizations, such as becoming OT chair of the OT/PT Pro Bono Clinic Board?
“I joined the board of our OT/PT pro bono clinic to help learn a more business and leadership side to healthcare. I enjoy getting to work with PT students to help improve and maintain our clinic for our school and patients. I am getting exposure to a side of healthcare that will be useful later in my career.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I became a student ambassador in an effort to help incoming and prospective students learn more about ATSU.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Reading, golfing, staying active, crafting or anything to work my creativity, and writing music.”
Layton Zea is a student in the A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, with an expected graduation in 2028. A Lakeshore, Utah native, he earned his undergraduate degree in exercise science with a minor in Spanish from Utah Valley University. Zea serves as a student ambassador and is active in ATSU’s community outreach efforts, including events for Parkinson’s disease and Special Olympics.
Why did you choose ATSU?
“I was drawn to the approach to healthcare being focused on the whole person.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“I enjoy the many events that our school encourages us to participate in, such as events for Parkinson’s and Special Olympics. We also participate in an interdisciplinary ‘Matter of Balance’ class which is a falls prevention class for older adults.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU helping prepare you for your career?
“I aspire to be an expert in the field of physical therapy and be able to treat the whole person exceptionally. As a Spanish speaker, I hope to treat many people who primarily speak Spanish. The next language I plan to implement in my practice and master is American Sign Language. ATSU has helped me understand not only how to prepare in the field of health, but also how to prepare the way I communicate to treat the whole person.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I wanted to help other students succeed in their studies and aspirations at ATSU. I enjoy working with people to help them find confidence and find a place where they can do their best.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Exploring the outdoors, rock climbing, singing and playing guitar.”
Alexandra Nicklow is a student in A.T. Still University’s School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (ATSU-SOMA), set to graduate in 2029. An Orono, Minnesota native, she earned her bachelor of science in biology from the University of Minnesota in 2023 and spent three years working in a hospital before starting medical school. Nicklow is involved in several student organizations at ATSU, including as a general board member of the Medical Skills Club and a general member of the ATSU Harm Reduction Club and ATSU CMDA Christian Healthcare Fellowship, in addition to serving as a student ambassador.
Why did you choose ATSU-SOMA?
“I chose ATSU because of the community and sense of support I felt during my interview. After speaking with faculty and current students, I knew this was a place I wanted to be. I could tell that the students were very happy and that the faculty was truly supportive and wanted to see the success of all students. I was also very excited about the opportunities to gain skills like ultrasound and clinical reasoning through the case based inquiry curriculum style during the first two years of the program. I knew this early exposure would prepare me well and set me up for success during my third- and fourth-year rotations.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“One thing I love about being a student at ATSU is the emphasis on balance and having fun outside of school. While academics is our main priority, there is never a shortage of opportunities to have fun. From club events during lunch hour or after class, intramural sports, or fairs on the front lawn, there is always something to look forward to.
“The fun outside of class has made my experience at ATSU very special, but my favorite part about being a student here has to be my classmates. I am so grateful for the people in my cohort and I know that not everyone is as lucky with their experience in medical school. I can truly say that I have never had a dull day as a student at ATSU-SOMA. From coffee runs between classes to an impromptu group study session in the library, I truly feel like I have a family here supporting me.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU helping prepare you for your career?
“I am interested in doing either a pediatrics residency with a fellowship in pediatric hospitalist medicine or a residency in internal medicine-pediatrics. I worked in a hospital for three years prior to starting medical school, and love the fast-paced and collaborative environment. ATSU is helping prepare me for this by its emphasis on group work and the process of a patient workup from the first week of classes. Being a hospitalist or internist will require me to collaborate with all disciplines of the healthcare team in order to provide the highest care for my patients, so I appreciate the interdisciplinary approach to patient care that ATSU provides by allowing us to learn from other programs on campus such as occupational therapy and dentistry.”
Why did you choose to join different student organizations? You are a general board member with the Medical Skills Club, and general member of the ATSU Harm Reduction Club and ATSU CMDA Christian Healthcare Fellowship.
“I joined the Harm Reduction Club because of its emphasis on community health, providing healthcare to people who may not have access to it, and reducing the stigma around drug use in healthcare. I appreciate that this club is very active in both the community and on campus, highlights topics like legislature and policy, and provides opportunities for clinical experience through both medical and osteopathic clinics.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I wanted to become an ambassador for this program because I wanted to serve as a mentor and resource for pre-med students. I am the first in my family to attend medical school, so the process was very new and overwhelming as I was navigating it. I relied on many mentors and current students to answer questions, give me advice, and encourage me along the way. Joining the student ambassador program has been a very rewarding way for me to do this for other students. I have enjoyed getting to know applicants during their interview sessions or during general Q&A sessions, and helping to ease their stress during this exciting but overwhelming period of life.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“I love that there are so many things to do in the Mesa/Phoenix area! I really enjoy being outdoors and going on walks and hikes, trying out new restaurants and cafes, and thrift shopping! I also love cooking and had a group of classmates over for a Greek Easter dinner this past semester!”
Originally from Tehran, Iran, she earned her doctor of dental surgery from Azad Tehran University, Dental Branch in 2017, bringing nearly a decade of clinical experience, with a particular focus on pediatric care, to her education at ATSU-MOSDOH. Since relocating to the U.S., she has volunteered with the Give Kids A Smile program and participated in school-based oral health screenings and community outreach initiatives. She also serves as a student ambassador.
Why did you choose the DMD program at ATSU-MOSDOH?
“I chose ATSU-MOSDOH because the cost of living in St. Louis is relatively affordable, and the tuition is moderate compared to more expensive schools. I also heard that the patient population is diverse, and because the school does not have residency programs I have more opportunities to treat a wider range of complex cases. During the interview process, and especially before and after it, the admissions support team, particularly Megan Bonham Smith, was always on top of everything, providing prompt and thorough responses to our questions. This level of support strongly influenced my decision to choose this school.”
What did you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“The positive aspect is the collaborative environment among students, especially in the Advanced Standing program. My classmates come from diverse backgrounds, but we are all very supportive, and we often help each other with studying, clinical cases, and preparing for exams. This teamwork creates a less stressful and more encouraging learning atmosphere.
“Additionally, being in St. Louis offers a comfortable and affordable living environment, which helps maintain a good balance between school and personal life.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how did ATSU-MOSDOH help prepare you for your career?
“Professionally, I hope to become a skilled and compassionate dentist, with a focus on providing care for children. I believe every child deserves a healthy and happy life, and financial challenges should never prevent them from receiving proper dental care. This belief has motivated me to actively participate in volunteer programs such as Give Kids A Smile since I moved to the States, in different states including California and Missouri.
“As an international dentist with years of experience, particularly in pediatric care, I aim to use the skills and knowledge I have gained both in my home country and in the United States to make a positive impact on children’s lives and help keep their futures bright.
“ATSU-MOSDOH helped prepare me for this journey through its strong emphasis on community outreach and preventive care. I have participated in several school-based programs, including back-to-school initiatives and oral health screenings in elementary schools. Through these experiences, I have educated children and parents about oral health and guided families who may need further treatment. These opportunities have also helped me learn how to connect with communities and share my skills in a meaningful way to serve others.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what did you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I joined the Student Ambassador team because, as an international student and a recent college graduate entering dental school, many things can feel unfamiliar. Exploring different paths and understanding each one often requires significant time and financial investment. I became an ambassador to share what I have learned and to help make this path easier for others. I wanted to provide the guidance I wish I had received at that time. I have truly enjoyed connecting with applicants and supporting them throughout the process.”
What are some of your interests and hobbies outside of ATSU?
“Outside of ATSU, I maintain a healthy lifestyle by staying active, such as walking and enjoying nature while taking care of my well-being. I also enjoy cooking and sharing this interest with others. In addition, I have a strong interest in communication and language. I have worked as both a volunteer and non-volunteer translator and interpreter, helping individuals overcome language barriers and making their lives easier. This has also allowed me to connect with various volunteer organizations and diverse communities while using my bilingual skills. Furthermore, I value spending time with family and friends.”
Hadlock was drawn to ATSU-ASDOH by its welcoming faculty and supportive learning environment. She serves as a student ambassador, social media coordinator for Students United for America’s Toothfairy, and general body member of both the Special Care Dentistry Association and the American Student Dental Association.
Why did you choose the DMD program at ATSU-ASDOH?
“I chose ATSU-ASDOH because of the welcoming faculty and supportive environment! During our first week of classes, one of our amazing faculty members, Kimberly Lovell, MEd, BSDH, came into our classroom and had already learned all 78 of our names. It really showed how much they actually care about us as individuals.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“I love being an ATSU student for many reasons, including the early clinical experiences and the many opportunities to grow. Within the first few weeks at ASDOH, we were already in the clinic practicing on one another and starting to learn the basics of dentistry! The school does a great job easing us into the curriculum, and the faculty are incredibly encouraging, approachable, and understanding as we adjust.
“I also really appreciate the modular curriculum at ATSU. We take one class at a time instead of multiple classes throughout the semester, which allows me to fully focus and put my best effort into each subject. Overall, I’m extremely happy with my decision to come to ASDOH!”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASDOH helping prepare you for your career?
“I hope to pursue a career in periodontics after graduating from ATSU. My overall goal coming into dental school was to become a well-rounded provider and create a space where my patients feel comfortable and heard. I know ASDOH will prepare me for my professional career ahead and allow me to enter the dental field knowledgeable and confident in whatever path I decide on.”
Why did you choose to get involved in student organizations?
“As the social media coordinator for Students United for America’s Toothfairy, I help create graphics for our club’s outreach and manage posts across platforms to keep students engaged in events like blood drives, lunch and learns, and community service initiatives.
“Through my involvement in the Special Care Dentistry Association, I have the opportunity to participate in events like the Advanced Care Clinic night clinic, where we provide after-hours care to ACC patients. As a patient buddy, I help provide emotional support during their appointments and get to spend time with some really amazing patients.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“Being a student ambassador has given me the opportunity to connect with prospective ATSU-ASDOH students and share what I love about the School. I’ve participated in open houses and events where I get to talk about how our program runs and the early hands-on experiences we have here. During my interview, I connected with an ambassador who played a big role in my decision to come to ASDOH, so it’s been really meaningful to now be able to do the same for others.”
What are some of your interests and hobbies outside of ATSU?
“Since moving from Florida to Arizona, I have gotten really into hiking and exploring the outdoors. My classmates and I are always finding fun things to do around Phoenix, whether it’s pool days or tubing down the river. I also love that I still have time for my personal hobbies like playing video games and painting when I need a break.”
