Osteopathic Family Physician of the Year is the highest and most coveted award given by MSACOFP.
Dr. Wilson was noted for her service to the Kirksville community for decades, shaping the Missouri family medicine workforce in immeasurable ways.
Kailey Lynch, PA, ’26, a student in the A.T. Still University-College for Healthy Communities (ATSU-CHC) Central Coast Physician Assistant (CCPA) program, is dedicated to addressing healthcare disparities. A graduate of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, with a bachelor of science in public health, Lynch was driven to become a physician assistant after witnessing significant barriers to healthcare access while working in primary care on California’s Central Coast.
Lynch is deeply committed to professional advocacy and mentorship. As a student ambassador, she bridges the gap between prospective students and the program’s mission of strengthening the local healthcare workforce. In this Q&A, Lynch discusses her passion for osteopathic, whole person healthcare and her goal of empowering underserved communities.
Why did you choose the CCPA program at ATSU-CHC?
“After graduating from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, California, and working in primary care throughout the Central Coast, I witnessed firsthand the significant barriers to healthcare access that many members of this community face. These experiences deeply shaped my desire to become a PA and address these disparities.
“When ATSU launched its Central Coast Physician Assistant program, I was excited to see an institution directly respond to the region’s healthcare needs by training providers where they’re most needed. I chose this program because it aligned with my passion for improving access to care and represented a commitment to strengthening the Central Coast’s healthcare workforce.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU-CHC CCPA student?
“The ATSU-CHC CCPA program cultivates a close knit, supportive student community. What I value most are the friendships, mentorship, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. As a student, I rely on my peers and learn from faculty who are greatly invested in our success. I enjoy diving into the medicine and science behind patient care so I can become the most capable PA possible. Working through rigorous material together reflects the collaborative nature of the PA profession, and that spirit of teamwork is embedded in our program.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU helping prepare you for your career?
“Professionally, I hope to practice osteopathic, whole person healthcare while serving as a strong advocate for my patients and their communities. I’m looking to build a career that allows me to continue growing through hands-on clinical practice. I’m also interested in potentially becoming involved in academic medicine in the future so I can contribute to training and mentoring the next generation of providers.”
You are a representative with the California Academy of Physician Associates (CAPA) and tutor with ATSU’s Peer-Assisted Learning (PAL) program. Why did you choose to join these different student organizations?
“I had the opportunity to serve as a CAPA representative to become more involved in professional advocacy and student engagement within the PA community. I enjoy connecting classmates with resources and opportunities while helping amplify the student voice. It’s been a valuable way to grow as a leader beyond the classroom.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I chose to become a student ambassador because I benefited greatly from mentorship and guidance on my own path to PA school, and I wanted the opportunity to provide that same support to others. I take pride in representing a mission-focused program and enjoy connecting with prospective students who are in the same position I once was. Being able to share my experiences, answer their questions, and help guide them through the process is both meaningful and rewarding.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Outside of ATSU, I enjoy traveling, spending time outdoors, and wakeboarding whenever I have the opportunity. I also enjoy trying new sushi restaurants and exploring local food spots. I value staying active and, most importantly, spending quality time with friends and loved ones. Those moments help me stay balanced and grounded during the demands of PA school.”
A.T. Still University (ATSU) students, faculty, and staff in Kirksville, Missouri, reached out to more than 200 of ATSU’s generous donors on April 7 during Thank-a-Donor Day, organized by University Advancement.
The event aimed to recognize ATSU alumni and friends who give back to support student and faculty success, sharing stories about the powerful impact they have through handwritten notes, phone calls, and video messages.
In this Q&A, Chong discusses the importance of professional soft skills, the value of a supportive campus community, and her goals for becoming a well-rounded practitioner.
Why did you choose the MSOT program at ATSU-ASHS?
“I was really drawn by ATSU’s vision statement, as it highlights ATSU’s role as a leading innovator in health professions education while prioritizing diversity among students, faculty, and staff.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“What I enjoy most about being an ATSU student is how much the school truly prioritizes student well-being and mental health. We are often reminded to take time for ourselves and maintain balance outside of academics, which is especially important in a demanding graduate program. ATSU also creates a strong sense of community by organizing fun, low-stress events such as hot chocolate days, craft days, and flower bouquet-making events, etc. These moments allow students to decompress, connect with one another, and feel genuinely supported beyond the classroom.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASHS helping prepare you for your career?
“I hope to enter the profession feeling well-rounded and confident across different practice settings. ATSU-ASHS prepares me for this through its extensive fieldwork opportunities and strong support in securing placements that align with students’ interests. I also appreciate the program’s focus on professional and soft skills, which has been essential in shaping me into a competent and effective future provider.”
You are president of the Coalition of Occupational Therapy Advocates for Diversity, hand therapy special interest section lead with the Student Occupational Therapy Association, treasurer of the OT/PT Pro Bono Clinic Committee, and exhibitor marketing manager for the 2026 ATSU Healthcare Expo. Why did you choose to join different student organizations?
“I joined these organizations to strengthen my leadership skills and make the most of my graduate program by actively contributing beyond the classroom. My involvement allows me to explore clinical interests within occupational therapy, collaborate with peers, and support initiatives related to diversity, advocacy, professional development, and community service. Through these roles, I enjoy staying engaged, building meaningful connections, and growing as a future occupational therapist.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I became a student ambassador because I truly enjoy my educational experience at ATSU and wanted to share that with prospective students. The professors here are extremely helpful and genuinely care about our learning and success, which has made a big difference in my graduate experience. I also value the small cohort size, as it fosters meaningful connections with classmates and creates a supportive learning environment. Serving as a student ambassador allows me to give back, highlight the quality of the education at ATSU, and help others feel confident and excited about joining the program.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“I enjoy hiking, cooking, and traveling.”
Abigail Anne Diaz, D1, a student in the A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ATSU-ASDOH) class of 2029, is focused on building a career centered on patient-focused care and clinical efficiency. After graduating from San Diego State University with a bachelor of science in biology, Diaz chose ATSU-ASDOH for its world-class clinical training, diverse fourth-year rotation opportunities, and welcoming community atmosphere.
Currently serving as a student ambassador, Diaz aims to share her pride in the ATSU community with prospective applicants, offering the same transparency and passion that inspired her during the application process. With aspirations to lead a private general family practice, she is utilizing her time at ATSU-ASDOH to cultivate not only technical dental skills but also the core values of empathy and compassion.
Why did you choose ATSU-ASDOH?
“I chose ATSU-ASDOH for its renowned clinical training, specifically the opportunity to gain diverse experience during fourth-year rotations. While the curriculum and training is world-class, it was the people who made the decision easy for me. During my interview, I was most impressed by the positive atmosphere at ASDOH. The students were incredibly supportive and the campus felt like the most welcoming community during the entire application process.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“The best part of ATSU is all of the activities that are offered on campus. There is always a student wellness event happening or campus-wide sports, such as pickleball, basketball, or flag football. We get to take care of ourselves and be active in different ways while also learning how to take care of others.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASDOH helping prepare you for your career?
“Professionally, my goal is to lead a private general family practice. ATSU-ASDOH has provided an exceptional environment to cultivate not only clinical efficiency but also the core values of compassion and empathy. I believe these qualities are the foundation of being a successful healthcare provider and a dedicated business owner, ensuring that patient care is at the heart of my future practice.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“My motivation to become an ambassador grew from the profound impact the ambassadors had during my first visit to ATSU-ASDOH. Their transparency and passion for the program contributed to my perspective of the school. I wanted to return the favor by serving as a source of inspiration for future applicants, sharing my own pride in this community and helping them envision their own journey here.”
“I chose ATSU-ASHS because I really connected with its focus on the body, mind, and spirit approach to care. I believe that every patient is more than their symptoms, and true healing means understanding their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. This holistic philosophy reminds me of how I was raised and the values my family taught me, such as showing compassion, listening deeply, and caring for people as a whole. I am very family centered, and I see that same sense of connection and support in ATSU’s community. I want to become the kind of clinician who not only treats illness but also helps patients feel seen, understood, and cared for in every way.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“What I enjoy most about being an ATSU student is how supportive everyone is. It really feels like a community where people want each other to succeed. My classmates, professors, and mentors are always willing to help, and that makes such a difference. I also love how diverse our classes are. Everyone comes from different backgrounds and experiences, so I’m constantly learning from the people around me. It makes discussions more interesting and helps me see things from new perspectives. Overall, it’s such a positive and encouraging environment, and I feel lucky to be part of it.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASHS helping prepare you for your career?
“Professionally, I hope to build a career where I can make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives while pursuing my passion for medicine. I am still exploring different specialties, but I have a strong interest in sports medicine, orthopedics, and anesthesiology. After tearing my ACL twice while playing soccer, I developed a deep appreciation for the recovery process and the impact that skilled, compassionate care can have on a patient’s life. That experience sparked my interest in sports medicine and orthopedics, where I could help others regain strength and return to the activities they love. It would be a dream to one day work with or be contracted under a major sports team, helping athletes stay healthy and perform at their best.
“ATSU-ASHS is helping me prepare for this future by emphasizing a holistic approach to care that focuses on treating the whole person in body, mind, and spirit. The curriculum and clinical experiences strengthen both medical knowledge and communication skills, which are essential in every area of medicine. The supportive environment and opportunities for leadership and community involvement at ATSU are also helping me grow into the kind of compassionate and well-rounded clinician I aspire to become.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I joined the student ambassador program because I truly enjoy helping and connecting with others. Throughout my undergraduate years, I served as a teaching assistant for anatomy and physiology, and that experience showed me how much I value guiding and supporting students. Being able to help people understand complex topics and feel more confident in their learning was incredibly rewarding. As a student ambassador, I get to continue that same kind of mentorship by sharing my experiences, answering questions, and helping prospective students feel welcomed and supported. I enjoy being part of a community that values kindness, leadership, and growth, and I take pride in representing my program and helping others find their place in it.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Outside of ATSU, I really enjoy staying active and being outdoors. Fitness is an important part of my life, and I recently ran the Rock and Roll 10K, which was such a rewarding experience. I love hiking and traveling because they let me disconnect, explore new places, and appreciate nature.
“I also have a creative side that comes from my dad’s family, which has a long lineage of artists. Drawing and painting have always been ways for me to express myself and relax. Music is another big part of my life, and lately I have been listening to Ax and the Hatchetmen’s newest album. I also love cooking because it allows me to be creative while sharing something I enjoy with others. These hobbies help me stay balanced, grounded, and connected to the things that make me happy.”
Fontenot is committed to advancing her clinical skills and serving the community through initiatives like Give Kids A Smile. As a student ambassador, she helps prospective students navigate the transition to dental school, sharing her passion for whole person healthcare and the beautiful Arizona landscape.
Why did you choose ATSU-ASDOH?
“I chose ATSU-ASDOH because of the people and the environment. The faculty, students, and staff were approachable, welcoming and eager to share their experiences, which made the day less intimidating. I was very pleased to find that the students genuinely enjoyed their lives here and the program itself. At ASDOH, our program offers a unique and valuable clinical experience that is essential for our post-graduate careers.
“I also really enjoyed seeing the state of Arizona itself. Being from Louisiana, this was definitely a big change but something I have appreciated. There are many outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and even enjoying the views that the area has to offer. It is nice to be surrounded by such a beautiful environment that has a lot to offer during these next couple of years.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“I enjoy all the events that ATSU has to offer outside of the classroom. At ASDOH, we often have lunch-and-learns where we are invited to participate in meetings with outside vendors or professionals. I also have enjoyed playing intramural here, along with several other side events that provide opportunities to engage with other students.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASDOH helping prepare you for your career?
“Professionally, I hope to be a dentist who patients feel like they can trust and be comfortable coming to. Dental work can be a very daunting thing to most patients and it is my goal to make them feel confident and supported in the chair. ATSU-ASDOH does a great job at preparing me for this through the amount of clinical experience offered, compassionate instructors, and opportunities for hand skill advancement.”
You are a member of the American Student Dental Association, Orthodontics Club, and part of the Costumes and Carnival Committee for Give Kids A Smile. Why did you choose to join different student organizations?
“I chose to be a part of these organizations because they were opportunities to get involved and help those around me. I love to be engaged and collaborate with others, both of which are things I get to do with being in these clubs. It also provides a great space to learn from those around and older than me about their experiences.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I chose to be a student ambassador to help incoming students who were struggling or were coming in with similar situations as mine. Being from so far away, not knowing anyone, and starting a new program can be a very daunting process. I wanted to be someone who could help with the adjustments into the next four years. I also wanted to have the opportunity to share what I enjoy about the school and hopefully help them in making their decisions.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Outside of the classroom, I love to do anything outside! Hikes, walks, or even sitting on my patio to study. I am a big reader and that is currently my favorite pastime. I also love to exercise and workout. Lastly, I enjoy hanging out with friends in my free time. This area has lots of opportunities and things to do on the weekends.”
A native of Bridgeton, Missouri, Kleitz graduated from Truman State University in 2024 with a bachelor’s of science in health science and a minor in biology. Now, as she pursues her doctor of osteopathic medicine degree, she has become a pillar of the ATSU-KCOM campus community. From leading as the president of the Catholic Student Association to serving as the secretary for the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians student chapter, Kleitz balances her rigorous academics with a deep commitment to service and leadership.
She is also an active member of the Pediatrics Club and the Sigma Sigma Phi Honors Fraternity. With a fellowship already on the horizon for next year, Kleitz shares her insights on navigating medical school, staying involved, and what makes the ATSU-KCOM experience unique.
Why did you choose ATSU-KCOM?
“I chose ATSU-KCOM because I felt welcome here, because there are countless opportunities for academic and personal growth, and because the environment is incredibly collaborative.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“The community at ATSU is very unique. Classmates and professors alike work very diligently to foster a collaborative environment, not a competitive one. The school offers so many resources to students and takes care to ensure we can keep ourselves healthy before we go out to keep others healthy.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-KCOM helping prepare you for your career?
“I hope to become either a pediatrician or family physician in a rural area, where I am able to serve a small community and develop close personal connections with my patients. ATSU-KCOM is helping me with every aspect of that goal by emphasizing equally the academic and humanistic sides of medicine and encouraging me to be a better person than I was yesterday.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I had such a wonderful experience on my campus tour as a prospective student. The student ambassadors were a great resource to me and seemed so genuinely excited about the school. After being here, I came to understand why they felt that way and was eager for the opportunity to serve as a spokesperson for this school that has done so much to set me up for success.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Outside of school, I enjoy playing the piano and tennis, and spending time with my adorable niece and nephew!”
Meet Harlie Robinson, D2, a standout member of the ATSU-Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ATSU-MOSDOH) class of 2028. Hailing from the small town of Jonesboro, Louisiana, Robinson brought her passion for science and service to Kirksville after graduating from Louisiana Tech University in 2022 with a major in biology and a minor in chemistry.
At ATSU-MOSDOH, Robinson has seamlessly blended her love for community with her professional ambitions. When she isn’t mastering the complexities of oral healthcare or serving as a student ambassador, you can likely find her on the intramural fields or training for her next half-marathon.
In this Q&A, Robinson shares why Kirksville felt like a “home away from home” and how ATSU-MOSDOH is preparing her to lead her own dental practice with confidence.
Why did you choose ATSU-MOSDOH?
“I am originally from a small town and the small town of Kirksville really stood out to me as another home away from home. I especially loved ATSU-MOSDOH’s commitment to serving the underserved and focusing on whole person healthcare, as dentistry isn’t just about the mouth, but also the link it has to systemic health.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“I enjoy all the intramural sports that I get to play, not only with my classmates, but also the ATSU-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine students. Being involved in extracurricular activities like intramurals or student organizations gives me the opportunity to step away from the classroom for a little while and have fun with other students!”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU helping prepare you for your career?
“In the future, my ultimate goal is to own my own dental practice and treat individuals of all types of backgrounds. ATSU-MOSDOH gives a great opportunity to work with very medically complex patients, and patients that may have the most extreme cases. Not only do we get to treat these patients, but we are specifically taught how to treat these medically complex patients and very complex cases, so when I get out of dental school I will feel confident in my ability to tackle the majority of the dental cases that come my way in my practice.”
Why did you choose to join different student organizations, including Still Caring Health Connection (dental president), Student Government Association (class secretary), and American Student Dental Association?
“I joined Still Caring as a way to get more hands-on experience with patients and enhance my ability to communicate effectively with patients. I became a first-year representative during my D1 year and continued my membership through D2 year, when I became dental president. Within this organization, we provide free medical and dental care, such as osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM), labs and vitals, dental screenings, and cleanings, to the underserved or uninsured communities around northeast Missouri.”
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 connect with prospective students and tell them all of the great opportunities that ATSU has to offer, and have loved getting to do this over the past few months.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“I love sports. I played softball for the majority of my life and I still love going to play with friends. This past year I also started running more, and have since completed a 5K and two half-marathons. I also enjoy drawing/painting for fun.”
A member of the class of 2026, O’Connell is president of the Biomedical Science Club and an active member of the Christian Medical and Dental Association, Rotaract, and the Student Government Association.
He has fully immersed himself in the ATSU culture of service. Whether he’s volunteering with the Special Olympics, playing guitar at his church, or supporting local nonprofits, O’Connell exemplifies the whole person healthcare philosophy. Having recently achieved his goal of medical school acceptance, he discusses his journey toward becoming a rural general surgeon.
Why did you choose ATSU-KCOM’s MSBMS program?
“More than a simple degree, ATSU-KCOM’s MSBMS program has provided the means by which I have been able to develop a variety of skills and knowledge that I can apply to prevalent shortcomings in rural and underserved communities. It is my dream to serve rural populations. ATSU has a reputation for educating individuals who have preceded me to reach this same goal.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“It is a blessing to live in Kirksville, especially because of it being a smaller community. As an ATSU student who is not from Kirksville or the surrounding area, I have found it particularly easy to settle into the local community. There are so many opportunities to experience the outdoors, from spending a day at the lake, to the county fair, or the various festivals the town hosts.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-KCOM’s MSBMS helping prepare you for your career?
“I came into graduate school with a few goals in mind. The first goal was to be pushed as a student to refine my skills in the classroom, but also as the means by which I could become a better learner. My second was to gain research experience. I have gained a profound appreciation for research as a biomed student. We go through the entire research process from beginning to end. The first day of class we learned how to read and interpret scientific literature, which I thought I knew but soon realized I had much to learn.
“My third and final goal was to get into medical school, which has been achieved and not only that but I am one step closer to reaching my long term goal of becoming a rural general surgeon!”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I became a student ambassador to pass along the awesome things ATSU has to offer to the next generation of students. I truly enjoy talking with prospective students and answering their questions, the very questions I have written in my old notebooks when I was in their shoes.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“I absolutely love being involved in the local community, doing various things, whether it be getting involved with my church and playing guitar for the Christmas parade, or volunteering at the Special Olympics this past summer. As for my hobbies, as I alluded to, I love playing guitar and play guitar at my church (The Crossing).
“One of the coolest things I’ve witnessed while being in Kirksville is connecting with some of the people and getting an inside look of a new Christian nonprofit, The House of Hope, providing a residence for local men who are seeking to rebuild their lives. I’ve gotten to personally know the family starting this nonprofit and I am so glad I can celebrate with them for this huge blessing!”
