President Phelps speaks at Kirksville Chamber of Commerce’s State of Education event
Posted: October 16, 2020
A.T. Still University (ATSU) President Craig Phelps, DO, ’84, was a featured speaker Thursday as part of the Kirksville Area Chamber of Commerce’s virtual State of Education event.
Thanking community leaders, as well as ATSU faculty, staff, and students for navigating challenges brought by COVID-19, Dr. Phelps called upon the leaders to continue setting examples in limiting coronavirus spread. This includes physical distancing, proper hygiene, and wearing masks in public spaces.
“The more you follow CDC guidance, the better example you set for the community,” Dr. Phelps said. “You might be the only one in Walmart or Home Depot wearing a mask. Once again, you’re setting the tone, and you’re protecting yourself and others.
“If we follow these basic principles, we can help keep our students, our families, our communities safe, and set a good example.”
Dr. Phelps said the former Twin Pines Adult Care Center building, which ATSU purchased, will be demolished soon and developed into a green space on Osteopathy Street in Kirksville. He encouraged community leaders to begin thinking about what could be there in the future.
“Are there opportunities to partner with others who may come to the community and work with all of our institutions, provide jobs, and educational experiences,” Dr. Phelps asked. “It’s a fertile ground for us to think about.”
Sponsored by the Kirksville chamber’s Governmental Affairs Committee, the event also included the president of Truman State University, director of Moberly Area Community College’s Kirksville, Missouri, campus, and local school representatives.