In this Q&A, Farrow shares what brought her to ATSU-ASHS, how the program is shaping her clinical skills, and why community has been at the heart of her experience.
Why did you choose the Physician Assistant program at ATSU-ASHS?
“I chose ATSU-ASHS because of its strong commitment to educating compassionate, patient-centered clinicians, and its emphasis on whole person healthcare. The program’s focus on communication, professionalism, and evidence-based medicine stood out to me during the application process. I was also drawn to the supportive learning environment and faculty dedication to student success. Being part of ATSU has reinforced my passion for becoming a PA who can make a meaningful impact in patients’ lives.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“One of the things I enjoy most about being an ATSU student is the strong sense of community within the program. My classmates are supportive and collaborative, which makes navigating the challenges of PA school more rewarding. Student life includes opportunities to participate in organizations, leadership roles, and events that bring students together outside of the classroom. These experiences help foster teamwork and friendships while preparing us for our future careers as physician assistants.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU helping prepare you for your career?
“Professionally, I hope to become a compassionate and knowledgeable physician assistant who provides patient-centered, evidence-based care. I am especially passionate about patient education and lifestyle medicine, and I hope to pursue a specialty in sports medicine where I can work with athletes and active individuals. My background in competitive athletics has inspired my interest in helping patients recover from injuries, optimize performance, and maintain long-term health. ATSU’s rigorous curriculum and emphasis on whole-person care are helping me build strong clinical reasoning, communication, and teamwork skills, preparing me to confidently care for patients and make a meaningful impact in their health.”
Why did you choose to join different student organizations, such as Still-Well Ambassadors?
“I joined student organizations as a way to stay connected with my classmates and contribute to the supportive community within our program. PA school can be incredibly demanding, so having opportunities to collaborate, encourage one another, and spend time together outside of the classroom is really meaningful. I appreciate how these organizations help foster connection, support student mental health and wellness, and remind us that we are all navigating this journey together. Being involved has strengthened my sense of community and helped me develop teamwork and leadership skills that I will carry with me throughout my career as a PA.”
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 support prospective students and share my experience in the ATSU-ASHS PA program. Applying to PA school can feel overwhelming, and I enjoy helping applicants learn more about the program and feel confident in their decision. Serving in this role has allowed me to represent a program that has had a meaningful impact on my development as a future PA. It is rewarding to connect with prospective students and highlight the supportive community and opportunities that ATSU offers.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Outside of ATSU, I enjoy staying active and spending time with friends as a way to stay balanced during the demands of PA school. I love trying new coffee shops, cooking at home, and getting outside for activities like pickleball or workouts. These moments help me recharge and stay connected with the people around me. Finding time for these hobbies has been important for maintaining wellness and perspective while in a rigorous program.”
ATSU faculty, staff, and students,
Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in Galveston, Texas, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863.
In observance of this significant milestone in our nation’s history, ATSU offices and patient care centers in Kirksville, Missouri; Mesa, Arizona; Santa Maria, California; and St. Louis, Missouri, will be closed on Friday, June 19, 2026. Facility access will be limited. The Kirksville Thompson Campus Center will also be closed.
To view library hours at each location, please click here.
*Click on the blue calendar tile and select Juneteenth.
Kurtz was drawn to the University by its storied history as the first osteopathic medical school and the firsthand recommendation of a physician mentor who trained there. A dedicated leader and advocate, she serves as president of both the L. Linton Budd OBGYN Society and Medical Students for Choice, as national liaison for the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons Medical Student Section (ACOS-MSS), and as a student ambassador.
Why did you choose the DO program at ATSU-KCOM?
“I chose ATSU-KCOM because of the school’s strong reputation and its history as the first osteopathic medical school. A physician I worked with who trained here spoke very highly of both the education and the sense of community at ATSU. Hearing about his positive experience made it clear to me that ATSU would be a supportive place to learn and grow as a future physician, which made my decision to attend an easy one.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“I enjoy the strong sense of community that comes with being an ATSU student. The friends I have made here have had such a positive impact on my overall happiness and have made medical school a much more supportive and enjoyable experience. Outside of studying, I love attending spin classes at the Thompson Campus Center as well as kayaking. I also enjoyed participating in intramural softball this past fall. While I hadn’t played since I was 8, it was a fun way to meet new people and have fun.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-KCOM helping prepare you for your career?
“My primary professional goal is to become a compassionate and skilled physician who takes the time to truly listen to patients and make them feel heard. I believe that strong patient–physician relationships are essential to providing good care, and I hope to create an environment where patients feel comfortable, respected, and involved in their healthcare decisions.
“ATSU-KCOM is helping prepare me for this career by providing a strong foundation in both medical knowledge and the osteopathic philosophy of patient-centered care. The supportive learning environment, hands-on opportunities, and emphasis on treating the whole patient are helping me develop the skills I need to become not only a competent physician, but also one who prioritizes empathy and communication in every patient interaction.”
Why did you choose to get involved in student organizations?
“I joined these organizations because they align closely with both my professional interests and my desire to be involved in the medical student community. As president of the L. Linton Budd OBGYN Society and Medical Students for Choice, I enjoy creating opportunities for students to connect, learn, and explore topics related to reproductive health and obstetrics and gynecology. Through the OBGYN club, we host activities such as HPS deliveries, IUD workshops, and documentary nights. These events allow members to practice hands-on skills while also learning about important topics in reproductive health and patient care in a collaborative environment.
“Serving as the National Liaison for ACOS-MSS has also allowed me to represent ATSU at a national level. I had the opportunity to travel to Salt Lake City for the ACOS conference, where I connected with other medical students interested in surgery and participated in surgical skills workshops. Being involved in these organizations has been incredibly rewarding because it allows me to meet new people, develop leadership skills, and further explore the areas of medicine I am most passionate about.”
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 get an honest perspective on what it is like to attend ATSU-KCOM. Choosing a medical school is a big decision, and I remember how helpful it was to hear directly from current students during my own application process. Serving as an ambassador allows me to share my experiences, answer questions, and help applicants feel more comfortable as they learn about the school.”
What are some of your interests and hobbies outside of ATSU?
“I love cooking and am working on creating a vegetarian and plant-based cookbook. My husband and I adopted a dog my first semester here, and we spend time going to the local dog parks and taking her on walks around the lake.”
Wackerman was drawn to ATSU by its culture of empathy, collaboration, and patient-centered care. Active across multiple student organizations, including the Internal Medicine Interest Group, Make-A-Wish at ATSU, the ATSU Harm Reduction Club, and the student ambassador program, he brings a strong commitment to community both inside and outside the classroom.
Why did you choose the DO program at ATSU-SOMA?
“I chose A.T. Still University-School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona because of the genuine sense of community I felt when speaking with current students. What stood out most was the culture of empathy, teamwork, and collaboration. It didn’t feel competitive or isolating – it felt supportive, like everyone was working toward the same purpose. I was especially drawn to the School’s commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care and its holistic approach to medicine. It felt like a place where students are treated like family and where developing into both a skilled physician and a thoughtful human being truly matters.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“One of the things I enjoy most about being an ATSU student is the inclusive and welcoming environment. From the beginning, I’ve felt supported by both my classmates and faculty. The open-door policy has allowed me to build meaningful relationships with professors, which has played an important role in my personal and professional growth. The culture here is centered on teamwork rather than competition; we collaborate, support one another, and genuinely want to see each other succeed.
“The campus also truly embodies diversity. There is a wide variety of student organizations and clubs that help everyone feel represented and included, and if something feels missing, students are encouraged to create it. That sense of empowerment and belonging is something I really value.
“Student life is vibrant and engaging as well. We have events like yoga sessions, mini-fairs, class-wide review sessions, sports tournaments such as basketball and flag football, and even traditions like Med Prom. These experiences help us stay connected, build community, and enjoy the journey through medical school together.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-SOMA helping prepare you for your career?
“Professionally, I hope to become a compassionate physician who serves diverse populations with empathy and cultural humility. I’m also excited to continue exploring different specialties as I discover the path that best aligns with my strengths and passions. ATSU has helped prepare me by exposing me to physicians across a wide range of specialties, giving me valuable insight into different approaches to patient care and the importance of collaboration in medicine. The CBI course, in particular, has strengthened my ability to work effectively in a team-based environment, helping me feel confident and prepared for the collaborative nature of the medical workplace.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I became a student ambassador because I remember how overwhelming and nearly impossible the decision process felt during my own application cycle. I wanted to be the kind of resource I wish I had – someone who could offer honest insight, transparency, and reassurance during such a pivotal time.
“Serving as an ambassador allows me to help guide the next generation of physicians by sharing a genuine perspective on what makes A.T. Still University-School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona so special. I hope to strengthen our community by providing thoughtful, authentic conversations that help applicants determine whether this environment aligns with their values and goals. Ultimately, I want to ensure students feel informed, supported, and confident as they make one of the most important decisions of their careers.”
What are some of your interests and hobbies outside of ATSU?
“Outside of ATSU, I love spending time outdoors, especially hiking in the Arizona desert. I also enjoy staying active at my local gym. Being outside and moving helps me recharge and maintain balance during medical school.”
De La Pena chose ATSU-ASHS for its strong faculty mentorship, small class sizes, and fully in-person, hands-on curriculum. As a clinic board member and student ambassador, she is committed to both her professional development and to helping prospective students make informed decisions about their own paths in healthcare.
Why did you choose the DPT program at ATSU-ASHS?
“I chose ATSU because of its strong faculty mentorship, small class sizes that support individualized learning, and its fully in-person, hands-on lab curriculum that aligns with my preferred learning style.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“I truly value the wide range of resources available to support me as I work toward this challenging and rewarding career. I also appreciate the strong sense of community within the program. Building meaningful connections with my classmates has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my experience. Whether we are reserving study rooms to prepare for exams or taking walks around campus to recharge and enjoy the sunshine, these moments have helped create lasting friendships and a supportive learning environment.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASHS helping prepare you for your career?
“Upon graduating from ATSU, I hope to specialize in pelvic floor physical therapy, with a focus on supporting women during the pre- and postpartum periods, as well as helping individuals experiencing incontinence regain confidence and return to their daily lives. ATSU is equipping me with a strong clinical foundation that will prepare me to pursue advanced certifications in this specialty. Additionally, the guidance and mentorship of my professors have been instrumental in helping me move toward this professional goal.”
Why did you choose to join the ATSU OT/PT Clinic Board?
“I value being part of the ATSU OT/PT Clinic Board because it provides a meaningful leadership opportunity and offers insight into the operational and administrative aspects of running a clinic. It allows me to gain hands-on experience and perspectives that extend beyond what is taught in 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 to offer incoming students an honest and relatable perspective on the program. It is incredibly meaningful to help them explore whether this is the right environment for them and to guide them as they gather the information needed to make a thoughtful, well-informed decision.”
What are some of your interests and hobbies outside of ATSU?
“Outside of my academic commitments at ATSU, I enjoy crocheting and reading, both of which allow me to unwind and recharge. I also prioritize regular exercise, which not only supports my own well-being but reinforces my passion for physical therapy.”
William F. Brechue, PhD, professor and chair, Department of Physiology, ATSU-KCOM, served as grand marshal. After 37 years in higher education, Dr. Brechue will be retiring from the University in June.
Susan L. Thomas, PhD, president, Truman State University, was the recipient of the 2026 Chancellor’s Medallion Distinguished Service Award. Dr. Thomas was recognized for her outstanding service and support to healthcare and the osteopathic profession. Under her leadership, Truman State University has been a valued partner to ATSU and a cornerstone of Kirksville’s higher education legacy.
David L. Rhoiney, DO, FACS, ’14, vascular surgery fellow, Emory University, former department head of surgery, U.S. Navy, served as commencement speaker and was awarded an honorary doctor of science in osteopathy degree.
Speakers also included ATSU-KCOM Dean Margaret Wilson, DO, ’82, Gaylah Sublette, MBA, president, ATSU’s Missouri campus, and Jonathan Cleaver, DO, FAOCD, FAAD, FASMS, ’08, who delivered the Board of Trustees greeting. ATSU Chancellor Craig Phelps, DO, ’84, provided closing remarks.
Watch the complete commencement ceremony and check out more photos below!
Teresa A. Dolan, DDS, MPH, vice president and chief clinical officer, Dentsply Sirona, senior advisor and former chief dental officer, Overjet, delivered this year’s commencement address. Dr. Dolan urged graduates to lead with compassion and innovation to drive meaningful change for underserved patients and communities.
Speakers included Donald S. Altman, DDS, DHSc, EdD, ’12, interim dean, professor, ATSU-MOSDOH, Gaylah Sublette, MBA, president, ATSU Missouri campus, and Jonathan Cleaver, DO, FAOCD, FAAD, FASMS, ’08, who delivered the Board of Trustees greeting. ATSU Chancellor Craig Phelps, DO, ’84, provided closing remarks.
Watch the full commencement ceremony and view more photos below!
Dr. Burch joins the 2026-2027 cohort in September with the opening symposium in Washington.
The AGB Institute for Leadership and Governance is designed for innovative, adaptive leaders who have a passion for higher education, a drive to serve, and a commitment to shaping the future of the education sector.
The six-month institute is composed of challenging symposia, interactive online workshops, and one-on-one mentoring connecting participants with top higher education leaders to discuss challenges facing institutions of higher learning.
Memorial Day provides an opportunity to remember and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in our country’s armed forces.
In observance of Memorial Day, ATSU offices and patient care centers in Kirksville, Missouri; Mesa, Arizona; Santa Maria, California; and St. Louis, Missouri, will be closed on Monday, May 25, 2026. Facility access will be limited.
The Kirksville Thompson Campus Center will be closed on Sunday, May 24, and Monday, May 25.
Please click here to view library hours at each location.
Yours in service,
Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84 Chancellor
Stephanie McGrew, DHSc, MPH, MHA, ’25, assistant director of diversity & inclusion for A.T. Still University of Health Sciences (ATSU), has been selected for two national STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) ambassador roles. Dr. McGrew, who leads ATSU’s Dreamline PathwaysTM program for young students interested in health professions careers, was selected by the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) as a Fields of STEM Ambassador and the Department of Defense (DoD) as a STEM Ambassador.
As a national STEM education leader, Dr. McGrew will be speaking at conferences across the country in 2026 to share the impact and innovation behind ATSU’s Dreamline Pathways™ program. Through these national platforms, she will highlight scalable models expanding access to hands-on, medical-based STEM learning for students in underserved communities.
Dr. McGrew frequently hosts middle school and high school students, as well as their teachers, at ATSU’s St. Louis Dental Center, a federally qualified health center operated in partnership with Affinia Healthcare. The dental center is a third- and fourth-year dental education clinic site for ATSU’s Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health students. At the St. Louis Dental Center, Dreamline Pathways™ students learn about dental science and innovations in dental practice through interactive, hands-on learning experiences. These immersive sessions are intentionally designed to engage young minds, demystify clinical environments, and encourage students to envision themselves pursuing careers in the health professions.
Through sustained University and St. Louis community partnerships and experiential programming, Dr. McGrew continues to build pathways connecting classroom learning to real-world clinical practice and long-term workforce development.
The NSTA Ambassadorship also opened the door for Dr. McGrew to become a DoD STEM Ambassador. Selected from a large pool of applicants from around the country, DoD STEM Ambassadors routinely meet and collaborate to share various resources to further STEM curriculum and education in schools across the U.S. “I am truly honored to be chosen to serve as a STEM Ambassador, and I look forward to contributing to STEM curricula throughout the country,” Dr. McGrew said. “Additionally, I will be able to share newly learned STEM resources with my University colleagues.”
