Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences

Callahan Domine, DO'29, has been selected to have his artwork featured in the in-person gallery and silent auction at the 2026 Gold Humanism Summit. The national summit brings together medical professionals, educators and students to explore best practices and strategies for making health care safer, more compassionate and more trustworthy.

Each year, the Iowa Medical Society Foundation awards Iowa medical students with funding for their global travels, where they participate in training experiences in a variety of countries, gaining real-world clinical and cultural experiences.

Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences embraces collaboration, a value that is core to the interprofessional education program that promotes multidisciplinary teamwork in health care. For the first time, DMU awarded students badges in recognition of their engagement in various activities aimed at building their skills in effective communication, teamwork and leadership.

At the Iowa Osteopathic Medical Association's Upper Midwest Osteopathic Health Conference this past April, students from Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences placed in the Student Poster Contest.

For the 24th consecutive year, Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences' College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery students achieved a 100% residency placement rate on national Match Day. This perfect match rate reflects DMU's reputation as one of the nation's leading podiatric medical schools and highlights the exceptional preparation of the CPMS Class of 2026.

The Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine Class of 2026 has achieved a 99% match rate in the 2026 National Resident Matching Program. The results, announced March 20, mark another milestone in DMU's longstanding success in preparing future physicians.

Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences student Arshi Sajid, DO'28, along with Jason Semprini, PhD, assistant professor of public health, published a paper titled "Nitrate and Brain/CNS Cancer Diagnoses in the First Year of Life," in Pediatric Blood and Cancer, a top tier international journal in the field of pediatric cancer.

Syed Ahmad presented his abstract at the 2025 Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics (TCT) conference in San Diego, California.

Jaden Harris has received the Avera Administrative Fellowship at Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences congratulates Holland Taylor, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA, Physician Assistant program director and department chair, on completing her Doctor of Medical Science degree at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine and receiving the school's Excellence in PA Advocacy and Leadership Award, where she also served as keynote speaker at the Aug. 2025 hooding ceremony.

OMM Fellows of 2026 from Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences presented research at the Mayo Osteopathic Research and Education conference in Onalaska, Wisconsin, and their research study won first prize.

Rebekah Warga, D.O.'27, has been nominated as one of six finalists for the American Osteopathic Foundation Golden Ticket Scholarship. Golden Ticket Scholarships recognize those who, despite financial obstacles, have achieved academic excellence, display exemplary leadership, give of themselves through volunteer/community activities and embody osteopathic tenets and philosophy. As a finalist, she will receive a $5,000 educational scholarship.

63 students in Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences' Doctor of Physical Therapy Program presented at the DPT Class of 2025b Case Report Poster Presentations on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025.

457 Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences students from five programs received their white coat during the university's annual White Coat Ceremony on Friday, Sept. 19, 2025. The white coat symbolizes a student's transition into the medical profession.

Sarah Burau D.O.'28 and Jimmy Yang D.O.'28, participated in the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) 2025 Medical Student Research program.

Lauren Mach, P.T., D.P.T, ATC, earns her sports specialist certification from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS).

Tanner Wetzel, D.O.'27, Ph.D.'25, was awarded the 2025 AAI Trainee Abstract Award and invited to deliver an oral presentation during a block symposium at Immunology 2025, the annual meeting of the American Association of Immunologists held in Honolulu, Hawaii, May 3-7, 2025.

Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences recognizes Spring 2025 award recipients.

Research conducted by Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences students Chia-Ming Lee, D.O. '24 and Victoria Mathis, Ph.D. '26 was featured in PLoS One.

Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences Class of 2025 graduates join relatives in the university's Grand Family Society.

On May 7, Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences recognized 160 students with service and leadership awards.

For the 23rd consecutive year, Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences' College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery students retained a 100% placement rate, upholding a tradition of excellence. The CPMS class of 2025 joins an esteemed group of alumni as they enter the health care workforce.

The Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine Class of 2025 has achieved a 99% match rate in the 2025 National Resident Matching Program. The results, announced March 21, mark another milestone in DMU's longstanding success in preparing future physicians.

Four students from the Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine program received travel awards from the DMU Office of Research for their recent presentation at conferences. These funds are awarded to support students in showcasing their innovative work at medical conferences across the country and share their unique findings with peers. Through their presentations, students gained valuable experience not only engaging with leading experts but also refining their research communication skills and representing DMU on a national level. Presenting students and their research include the following.

Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences played a prominent role at the Iowa Physician Assistant Society Fall Continuing Medical Education Conference, held in October in Coralville, Iowa. Themed Healthcare in the Heartland, the event featured educational sessions, a student symposium and multidisciplinary presentations, showcasing the exceptional expertise and contributions of DMU faculty, students and alumni. Highlights of DMU Involvement Student Presentation MacKenzie Kort, M.S.P.A.S.'25, of West Des Moines, Iowa, presented a research poster titled "Strides to Safety: Promoting Skin Health in Runners." Her work highlighted the importance of dermatological care for athletes and underscored DMU students' commitment to innovative, impactful research. Multidisciplinary Presentation DMU faculty members Shawna Swain, M.S.P.A.S., PA-C, Jillian Jones, D.P.T., CBIS, and Emily Summerfield, O.T.D./L, CBIS, delivered a joint presentation, "Stay on Your Feet: A Fun Guide to Fall Prevention in Our Golden Years." This engaging session provided actionable strategies for addressing fall risks, emphasizing interprofessional collaboration. Faculty Speaker Yujiang Fang, M.D., Ph.D., associate professor of microbiology and immunology, shared his expertise in a presentation titled "Updates of Diagnosis and Management of Benign Prostate Hyperplasia." Alumni Contributions DMU alumni Britta TenHaken, M.S.P.A.S.'19, and Morgan McGinn, M.S.P.A.S.'18, returned to the conference as speakers, demonstrating the continued impact of DMU graduates in advancing health care education and practice.

Jacquine Egbon, D.P.M.'27, of West Des Moines, Iowa, has been selected as the recipient of the Joseph Dorgan Memorial Trust Scholarship. This distinguished endowed fund was established to aid, comfort, support and provide assistance to African American individuals, reflecting a commitment to fostering equity and opportunity in education. Awardees of the scholarship are nominated by their respective college deans, with one exceptional student chosen from the pool of nominees. Egbon's selection highlights her academic excellence, dedication to the field of podiatric medicine and embodiment of the values the scholarship represents. DMU extends its heartfelt congratulations to Egbon for this outstanding recognition and celebrates the continued impact of the Joseph Dorgan Memorial Trust Scholarship in supporting and empowering future leaders in medicine.

Chloe Van Vliet, D.P.M.'26, of Otley, Iowa, has been named the recipient of the Bako Pathology Scholarship. This scholarship, endowed by Bradley Bakotic, D.O., D.P.M., and Bako Pathology, recognizes third- and fourth-year podiatric medical students who demonstrate exceptional skill and dedication in the field of pathology. The Bako Pathology Scholarship reflects a commitment to advancing podiatric education through recognition of outstanding student achievement. Van Vliet's selection highlights her excellence in pathology and her dedication to advancing health care through a deeper understanding of diagnostic tools. Bako Pathology has long been a supporter of Des Moines University's College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, contributing to scholarships and innovative educational resources such as the Bako Clinical Skills Lab and Classroom. This lab, funded by a $100,000 gift from Bako Pathology, provides cutting-edge technology and learning spaces that enrich the student experience. Van Vliet joins a distinguished group of scholars who exemplify academic excellence and a commitment to elevating the podiatric profession. DMU congratulates her on this significant achievement and extends gratitude to Bako Pathology for its continued investment in the next generation of podiatric physicians.

Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences is proud to announce Noah Brennan, D.P.M.'25, from West Des Moines, Iowa, has been named a recipient of the prestigious Michael L. Stone Doctor of Podiatric Medicine Outstanding Professional Conduct Award by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. This award recognizes podiatric medical students who exemplify the highest standards of professionalism, ethics and respect in their interactions with peers, patients, professors and staff. Brennan was selected by DMU faculty and peers for his exemplary conduct and dedication to the podiatric profession. This accolade honors the legacy of Michael L. Stone, D.P.M., a former ABFAS president and board member who championed the elevation of educational and professional standards in podiatric medicine. DMU congratulates Brennan on this outstanding achievement and his commitment to upholding the values of professionalism and excellence in health care.

Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences proudly announces Logan Savits, D.P.M.'26, of Ankeny, Iowa, has been awarded the Mel Straub Scholarship. This recognition honors Savits' academic achievements, dedication to podiatric medicine and commitment to advancing health care. The Mel Straub Scholarship celebrates students who demonstrate excellence and potential in the field of podiatry. Savits' accomplishment reflects his hard work and dedication to becoming a future leader in health care. DMU congratulates Savits on this outstanding achievement and expresses gratitude to the Mel Straub Scholarship Fund for supporting the next generation of podiatric professionals.

Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences proudly congratulates Chloe Van Vliet, D.P.M.'26, of Otley, Iowa, on receiving the Iowa Podiatric Medical Society Designated Scholarship. This scholarship reflects Van Vliet's dedication to advancing podiatric medicine and her commitment to improving health care access and quality in the state of Iowa. The IPMS scholarship program supports outstanding students preparing for careers in podiatric medicine, recognizing their potential to make meaningful contributions to the field and the health of Iowans. Chloe's achievement highlights her excellence in academics and her passion for patient care. DMU and the College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery commend Van Vliet for this well-deserved honor and extend gratitude to the Iowa Podiatric Medical Society for its continued support of future podiatrists.