Faculty promoted at ATSU-KCOM

KIRKSVILLE, Mo. – Three faculty members at A.T. Still University’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM) have been promoted from assistant professor to associate professor.

“A college or university is only as good as its faculty and staff,” said KCOM Dean Phil Slocum, D.O. “When faculty peers recognize a faculty member’s promotion, it is a very big deal. Each of these faculty members has contributed to advancing KCOM and ATSU’s mission. They are each appreciated for their achievements.”

Larry Ciesemier, D.O.

Larry Ciesemier, D.O., a 1997 graduate of KCOM, was promoted from assistant professor to associate professor in the Internal Medicine department. Dr. Ciesemier operates Kirksville Allergy and Asthma LLC, an allergy and asthma immunology private practice, and will graduate from the Missouri Sheriff Training Academy on December 3 when he will then serve as a reserve deputy officer with Adair County and the Kirksville Police Department.

“I am proud and honored to receive this promotion. As course director and chair of the department of internal medicine, I have and am striving to create a vibrant atmosphere of excellence for both students and faculty,” Dr. Ciesemier said.

Patricia Sexton, D.H.Ed., M.S.

Patricia Sexton, D.H.Ed., M.S., was promoted from assistant professor to associate professor of Family Medicine, Community Medicine, Preventative Medicine. Dr. Sexton is also director of research at ATSU’s School of Health Management (SHM), teaching classes at both SHM and KCOM. Dr. Sexton has been a faculty member at ATSU for 21 years.

“I feel fortunate to work in the osteopathic profession, with the best and brightest students and committed colleagues. I will work to continue making relevant contributions to KCOM and to medical education nationally,” Dr. Sexton said.

Kelly Halma, D.O.

Kelly Halma, D.O., was promoted from assistant professor to associate professor in the Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine department. Dr. Halma has been with the University since 2005.

“It is a great honor to be recognized by the leadership and faculty for my work at ATSU-KCOM,” Dr. Halma said. “Training future physicians is a tremendous responsibility and one I take very seriously, as does everyone at ATSU. I am proud to be part of this important mission and part of this organization.”