KOAA announces 2008 award recipients

KIRKSVILLE, Mo. (Oct. 14, 2008 ) – A.T. Still University’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM) and the Kirksville Osteopathic Alumni Association (KOAA) will honor several individuals at their annual meeting which will be held in conjunction with the American Osteopathic Association Convention in Las Vegas on October 27.

Each year, the KOAA recognizes outstanding alumni and friends with various awards. “The individuals honored ensure the continued reputation of excellence at our University,” said the KOAA Board of Directors. “At the same time, these individuals set a high standard for the aspiration and goals of KCOM. We are proud to honor their leadership, service, and commitment.”

The Alumnus of the Year Award, established in 1982, recognizes graduates who have made outstanding contributions to the College and the osteopathic profession. Robert Kromer, D.O., ’52, of Longboat Key, Fla., is the 2008 Alumnus of the Year.

The Living Tribute Award was established in 1969 and honors outstanding faculty and administration. ATSU’s Arizona Campus Provost Craig M. Phelps, D.O., FAOASM, ’84, of Scottsdale, Ariz., is the 2008 Living Tribute Award recipient.

The Distinguished Service Award, established in 1991, recognizes alumni and friends who have provided outstanding service and/or financial support to ATSU-KCOM. The 2008 honorees are Lex C. Towns, Ph.D., of Yakima, Wash., and Roland P. Sharp, D.O., ’43, of Marlinton, W. Va.

The Honorary KOAA Membership was established in 1948 to recognize individuals who rendered meritorious service to osteopathic education. The 2008 honorees are Doug Wood, D.O., Ph.D., of Mesa, Ariz.; Brian Degenhardt, D.O., of Ridgway, Colo.; Fanchon “Fancy” Funk, Ed.D., of Tallahassee, Fla.; and Robert Basham of Kirksville, Mo.