VCOM 2024 Annual Report
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V COM has remained steadfast in its mission to prepare globally minded, community-focused physicians dedicated to serving rural and medically underserved populations. What began as a response to a looming physician shortage has become a critical effort to address a challenge even greater than we had imagined. Today, more than 6,000 VCOM-trained physicians are equipped with the skills and compassion to meet the healthcare challenges of our time. As medical needs evolve, so too must medical education and research. Through strategic partnerships with academic and clinical institutions, VCOM embraces cutting-edge advancements, including artificial intelligence, to improve patient care and medical training. Together, we are rising to the challenge—innovating, educating, and shaping the future of healthcare for rural and medically underserved communities in need.
Table of Contents
1 Introduction Message from the President.............................. 4 Message from the Chairman.............................. 6 VCOM Board of Directors.................................. 7 History of the College ........................................ 8 12 Our Campuses Virginia Campus............................................... 14 Carolinas Campus............................................ 20 Auburn Campus............................................... 26 Louisiana Campus............................................ 32 38 Students Targeted Recruiting for Future Students.......... 40 Community Recruitment.................................. 43 Class of 2024 Residency Match..................... 44 46 Academic Programs Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Degree......... 49 The DO Program: Academics: Years 1 and 2......................... 50 Clinical Education: Years 3 and 4.............. 52 Clinical Education Training Sites...................... 54 Affiliated Programs: Graduate Medical Education..................... 64 Educational Partnerships........................... 68 70 Outreach Community Outreach....................................... 72 International Outreach...................................... 82
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2024 Annual Report
88 Research Overview and Expenditures............................. 91 VCOM Annual Research Retreat...................... 94 DOD Awards a $3.5 Million Grant.................... 96 Via Research Recognition Day Program on All Campuses......................... 98 Extramural Funding Portfolio......................... 115 Strengthening VCOM-Auburn’s Research Partnership with Auburn University ........ 116 Grant for LAP Mentor Simulator on the VCOM-Carolinas Campus............ 119 VCOM Seed-Funded Research.................... 120 Faculty Scholarly Activities .......................... 124 VCOM-Virginia and Virginia Tech Collaborate to Earn $2.17 Million in NIH Funding ..... 129 Student Scholarly Activities ......................... 136 156 Alumni Alumni Practice Specialties .......................... 158 Residency Placement,,Practice Locations, Residency Practice Locations Maps...... 160 Celebrating the Class of 2024....................... 166 VCOM Supporting Our Military ..................... 170 Alumni Leading the Future of Medicine ........ 172 The VCOM Alumni Association ..................... 174 178 Giving Student Scholarship Highlights .................... 181 VCOM Scholarships ..................................... 186 Stories of Generosity .................................... 188 Our Donors.................................................... 194 Economic Impact of the College................... 204 Economic Impact of our Alumni.................... 206 Ways to Give ................................................ 208
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INTRODUCTION
Shaping the Future of Osteopathic Medicine Dixie Tooke-Rawlins, DO, FACOFP President, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
T he Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) mission has always been clear: to prepare globally minded, community focused osteopathic physicians who will meet the healthcare needs of rural and medically underserved populations. This commitment has guided the institution’s growth, shaped the curriculum, and driven the success of students and alumni. As we reflect on the past year and look ahead, we take pride in
surpass national standards with board scores (first-time pass rates and scores) higher than the national average, a lower attrition rate, an initial residency match rate for the past four years of more than 95%, and a final pass rate exceeding 99%. These numbers surpass the national average for both DOs and MDs. VCOM’s remarkable success speaks to our graduates’ quality and readiness to meet residency training demands.
VCOM’s contributions to shaping the future of osteopathic medicine—
“VCOM remains committed to graduating physicians who will meet our country’s needs, to advancing research that improves human health, and to fostering a sense of purpose in every student, as we help to transform the outlook for the future of healthcare.”
one student, one graduate, and one community at a time.
VCOM students are at the heart of our mission. In the 2024-25 academic year, 84% of
VCOM students come from our target states, 24% of our students are from communities of less than 10,000, and 45% of our students hail from communities with populations of less than 30,000. These are rural areas where access to quality healthcare is often limited. By recruiting students from these areas, the likelihood of these future physicians serving their home communities or other rural communities is higher. In addition, 64.5% of our graduates have entered primary care residencies, a critical step in addressing the ongoing shortage of primary care providers in rural and underserved areas.
VCOM’s impact does not end with residency training. Today, more than 60% of VCOM alumni are practicing in primary care and in an area of the country where they are most needed: rural and medically underserved areas. In addition, 74% of VCOM’s alumni practice in a VCOM-designated target state in the Southeast United States. The majority of VCOM students and alumni remain committed to serving in areas where they are most needed. VCOM remains committed to graduating physicians who will meet our country’s needs, to advancing research that improves human health, and to fostering a sense of purpose in every student, as we help to transform the outlook for the future of healthcare.
Academic excellence is the foundation of VCOM’s success. Our students continue to
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84 % of our students come from our target southeastern Appalachian and Delta regions. They most likely will return to serve their home communities. 24% come from communities with populations under 10,000.
VCOM physician graduates from 2007-2020 who have completed their residencies and gone on to practice, have created an Economic Impact of more than $ 65.2 billion across the United States.
123 students are currently pursuing a
DO degree with a Research Distinction . 148 graduates have already earned a DO degree with Research Distinction as of May 2024.
74 % of VCOM graduates practice in a target state directly contributing to our goal of providing healthcare to the communities of most need.
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INTRODUCTION
A Vision for the Future of Rural Healthcare John G. Rocovich Jr., JD, LLM Chairman, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
O ur mission at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) is rooted in service. Since VCOM’s founding, I have had the privilege of working alongside many dedicated leaders, faculty, and staff who share a commitment to the mission. In addition, I take pride in the accomplishments of our amazing students and alumni. Together, we are shaping healthcare for generations to follow. America continues to face a growing healthcare crisis. The need for primary care physicians and physicians who will practice in rural and medically underserved areas continues to grow. Today, nearly 20% of the U.S. population lives in a rural area, and these communities have far fewer physicians than their urban counterparts. The result is a population with high rates of chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, and fewer healthcare professionals available to provide care. However, these rural areas are not alone in having citizens who face challenges in finding healthcare. The Association of American Medical Colleges projects a healthcare shortage for up to 124,000 physicians by 2034, affecting both primary and specialty care. VCOM is answering this call. Our commitment to recruiting students from our target states in the Southeast United States, especially from the Appalachian and Delta areas, will help assure a future physician workforce for those states. Our educational partnerships with community-based hospitals provide a high
quality education that prepares our graduates to work in these medically underserved areas and to meet the challenges they will face. As chairman, along with our board, we work to ensure VCOM remains strong academically, financially, and institutionally so we can continue to fulfill the mission for generations to come. Medical education is a significant investment for our students, so we are committed to keeping our tuition as low as possible and to offering our students benefits such as health insurance and disability. As a board, we continue to seek donations for scholarships. The rewards are profound for students choosing careers in medicine that will serve those from rural and medically underserved areas. Through scholarships and loan repayment programs that provide financial relief, our graduate physicians experience the deep personal satisfaction of making a difference where it is needed most. For VCOM graduates, it is more than a profession—it is a calling to serve. “Today, nearly 20% of the U.S. population lives in a rural area, and these communities have far fewer physicians than their urban counterparts.”
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VCOM Board of Directors
Sandra Davis Owner, BCR Real Estate & Property Management
Thomas R. Brock Jr., MBA Vice President General Electric, retired
Nick J. Bruno, PhD Acting President, University of Louisiana Monroe
Jimmy Gibbs Founder and Chairman of Gibbs International, Inc.
John G. Rocovich Jr., JD, LLM Attorney Chairman
Dixie Tooke-Rawlins, DO, FACOFP President
Christopher Roberts, PhD Auburn University President
Randal J. Kirk, JD Chairman and CEO of Intrexon Corporation
Roy E. Heaton, DO Retired Physician
Bruce Holstien President and CEO, Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System
Elizabeth McClanahan, JD President, Virginia Tech Foundation, retired Virginia Supreme Court Justice
W. Bruce Hanks Board of Directors, CenturyLink, Inc.
Sue Ellen B. Rocovich, DO, PhD Physician and Secretary of VCOM
Jimmy Sanford Chairman, Auburn University Research & Technology Foundation
Raymond D. Smoot, PhD President, Virginia Tech Foundation, Retired
Daniel A. Wubah, PhD President of Millersville University of Pennsylvania
Directors Emeritus: The board wishes to thank its past members for their valuable contributions to the success of the College.
John A. Cifala, DO 1, *
William G. Anderson, DO 1
James R. Bohland, PhD
Tim Boosinger, DVM, PhD
Neal Castagnoli Jr., PhD 1
Jay Gogue, PhD
James F. Wolfe, PhD 1, * President Emeritus
Donald L. Large Jr., PhD
Steven Leath, PhD Mark McNamee, PhD 1
James C. Justice II U.S. Senator – West Virginia
T. Eugene Zachary, DO 1, *
1 Indicates founding member * deceased
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INTRODUCTION
The History and Growth of VCOM VCOM was founded to solve the physician shortage and shape the future of rural and medically underserved areas by providing physicians to the areas of most need.
T he Harvey W. Peters Research Center Foundation was created by Marian Bradley Via to benefit Virginia Tech and the Southwest Virginia region. Investments from the Harvey Peters Research Foundation and Edward Via have generously supported VCOM, as has generous support from John G. Rocovich Jr., JD, LLM, and his wife, Sue Ellen Rocovich, DO, PhD. With this support, VCOM was founded in 2001 in collaboration with Virginia Tech. The goal was to address what was, at the time, a projected physician shortage of 50,000 to 100,000 physicians. Physician shortages currently affect rural and medically underserved areas throughout the Southeast United States. Building the First Campus At the time of VCOM’s founding, the need for more primary care physicians was clear. With funding secured and leadership recruited, VCOM broke ground on its first building in 2002, and the first students arrived in 2003. In those first few years, the College leaned into its mission, offering health clinics in Southwest Virginia communities and establishing international clinics in the Dominican Republic, Honduras, and El Salvador. Initial accreditation began in 2003 with the enrollment of the first class, and full accreditation followed in 2007 with the graduation of the first class. College Growth and Partnerships As part of the mission, VCOM developed successful collaborative research partnerships with Virginia Tech and built spaces for continuing biomedical, clinical, pharmaceutical, and educational research projects. VCOM and Virginia Tech joined together to create a sports medicine program and fellowship to provide enhanced healthcare to athletes and train future osteopathic sports
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medicine specialists. Gunnar Brolinson, DO, was named the head team physician and fellowship director. The program was so successful that it has been replicated on VCOM’s Auburn campus. Growing the VCOM Mission VCOM leadership, while working to meet the needs of Southwest and Southside Virginia, recognized the need to expand the mission to other areas of the Appalachian region, including the mountainous areas of North Carolina and the Piedmont area of upstate South Carolina. The College opened a clinical site for the students in these areas and it wasn’t long before VCOM was approached by the City of Spartanburg and the Spartanburg Regional Hospital to establish a second campus in South Carolina. VCOM-Carolinas broke ground in 2010 on the site of the historic Spartan Mill. By 2011, the first students arrived, and the College became a catalyst for a critical and forward-thinking redevelopment of the area. VCOM-Carolinas saw the graduation of its first class in 2015, and it maintains its primary care and rural mission focus, producing more graduates practicing in medically underserved areas than the other two medical schools within South Carolina. Meanwhile, in 2011, the president of Auburn University, Jay Gogue, shared his concerns about the physician shortages in Alabama with the president of Virginia Tech, who shared the news of VCOM’s success in meeting the needs of rural Virginia. As a result, Auburn University sought to establish a public/private partnership with VCOM and launch a campus in Auburn, Alabama. The campus opened to its first class of medical students in 2015.
2001
Charter established for the College. VCOM is founded in Blacksburg, Virginia.
2002
Construction begins for VCOM-Virginia at the Virginia Tech CRC; leadership makes first visits to D.C.
2003
The first class of students is welcomed by founding dean Dixie Tooke-Rawlins, DO, and president James F. Wolfe, PhD.
2004
The College adds its first dedicated research facilities, located in the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center in the RB II building.
2006
VCOM launches a nationally recognized Sports Medicine Fellowship with Virginia Tech. The program has extended to the Auburn campus.
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INTRODUCTION
The History of VCOM (continued)
The first VCOM-Auburn class graduated in 2019. Many successful relationships have been established with Auburn University, including those with the nursing school and the pharmacy college to serve many of the unmet needs of populations in Auburn, Opelika, and the surrounding area. Research relationships have been established with Auburn University’s School of Kinesiology and College of Engineering. Today, many of the VCOM-Auburn graduates who are finishing residency are returning to hospitals throughout the state where they experienced their clinical education. Inspired by the success of VCOM’s first three campuses, Nick Bruno, PhD, president of the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM), approached VCOM about the possibility of developing a VCOM campus in Louisiana. The unmet needs of Northern Louisiana were evident, and the Rural Hospital Coalition joined ULM in the proposal. By 2020, with all state and national accreditation approvals met, the new VCOM-Louisiana building was constructed on the ULM campus and the first class enrolled. The first class graduated from VCOM Louisiana in 2024. Advancing a Mission of Excellence Today, VCOM has 99%-100% residency match rates across all four campuses. The quality of VCOM graduates has become well known to residency programs in the Southeast United States. As to meeting the mission: More than 70% of VCOM graduates have now entered primary care and 67% of alumni in practice are located in a rural setting or a setting designated federally as a medically underserved community.
2007
VCOM-Virginia Inaugural Class of 2007 graduates.
2010
VCOM’s first primary care alumni complete residency and begin serving in underserved communities, fulfilling the mission.
2011
Construction finishes on VCOM Carolinas, and the inaugural class begins studies in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
2015
Construction completes on VCOM Auburn, and its first class begins. The VCOM-Carolinas campus celebrates its first graduates.
2018
VCOM launches its one-year MABS program with Bluefield University, helping students strengthen medical and healthcare school applications.
Advancing healthcare in underserved communities includes more than educating
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physicians, and VCOM continues to collaborate with other institutions to support healthcare programs. VCOM developed several significant educational partnerships with other colleges that are now owned by the Harvey W. Peters Research Foundation (HWPRF), including the Appalachian College of Pharmacy (ACP), which offers a Doctor of Pharmacy degree in Southwest Virginia, where both institutions share interprofessional educational experiences for students. In July 2018, VCOM began a collaboration with Bluefield University (BU) to offer a Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences (MABS) program with the purpose of preparing rural students to meet the academic challenges of medical school. VCOM has also recently partnered with BU to offer a Master of Health Science in Anesthesia (MHSA) on the VCOM Auburn campus. The success of that program has led to a similar program at VCOM Carolinas, launching in fall 2025. VCOM is shaping the future of healthcare in other ways too. The Alabama Artificial Intelligence Center (AAICE) is a collaboration between VCOM-Auburn and AUBix, a prominent data center based in Auburn. Established with the goal of revolutionizing AI research and application, AAICE is a fusion of academic expertise and technological infrastructure. In fact, partly because of AAICE, VCOM—along with the Center for Health Services Research—recently received a $3.5 million grant from the Department of Defense to study syndromic surveillance and biothreats. VCOM’s future is bright. With more than 6,000 alumni physicians in residency or practicing in our nation, VCOM has become the largest medical school in the Southeastern United States and continues its focus on assuring those patients in most need will have access to care.
2019
VCOM-Auburn’s inaugural Class of 2019 graduates.
2020
Despite COVID-19 closures, VCOM students continue learning online. VCOM-Louisiana campus construction finishes, welcoming its inaugural class.
2021
VCOM partners with SOUTHCOM, sending military scholarship students and faculty aboard the USNS Comfort for humanitarian missions.
2022
The Master of Health Science in Anesthesia program launches at VCOM-Auburn, expanding to VCOM-Carolinas in 2025.
2024
VCOM-Louisiana inaugural class graduates with 139 new physicians.
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INTRODUCTION
12
Campuses
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A Year of Service, Growth, and Community Impact Ron Januchowski, DO, FACOFP Dean for the Virginia Campus
R eflecting on the past year as dean of the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM)–Virginia, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude. Our mission goes far beyond medical education—it is about building lasting connections, strengthening communities, and ensuring that quality healthcare reaches those who need it most. At VCOM–Virginia, engagement is not just an initiative; it is the foundation of who we are and what we do. From the very first day of medical school, our students embrace the responsibility of serving others. This commitment was evident as we welcomed the 178 students of the Class of 2028 at their White Coat Ceremony in October. Demonstrating a deep dedication to public health, within the first block, every student voluntarily participated in overdose prevention training, learning to administer Narcan to help respond to an overdose emergency. Led by the Class of 2027, this training not only equipped them with essential life-saving skills but also reinforced the power of peer-led service in creating a safer, healthier community. We celebrated the achievements of 176 graduates in the Class of 2024 on May 19, marking another milestone in VCOM’s mission to supply rural and underserved areas with dedicated physicians. Their 100% residency match rate, with more than 60% entering primary care and 75% choosing to serve in an Appalachian state, speaks to their unwavering commitment to community health. Additionally, more than 15% graduated with research distinction, further advancing medical knowledge to benefit the populations we serve.
VCOM–Virginia thrives on meaningful engagement, and 2024 was a testament to the profound impact of our outreach efforts. Through community health initiatives in Southwest Virginia, our Summer Enrichment Experience (SEE), and our volunteer efforts at local events, we have strengthened connections and expanded access to health education. “Every outreach event, every patient served, and every student inspired strengthens the foundation of a healthier, more connected world.” Our commitment to engagement extends across the world. In 2024, VCOM students and faculty embarked on life-changing medical mission trips to Honduras and the Dominican Republic, providing essential care to over 3,500 patients. Additionally, our VCOM international continuous care clinics have now served more than 100,000 patients and administered 10,600 childhood vaccinations. These efforts reinforce VCOM’s role as a global leader in healthcare access and community-driven medicine. Every outreach event, every patient served, and every student inspired strengthens the foundation of a healthier, more connected world. Together, we are building a healthier, more compassionate future—one community at a time.
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Virginia Advisory Board 2024-2025
John G. Rocovich Jr., JD, LLM Chairman
Dixie Tooke Rawlins, DO, FACOFP President
Deborah West, EdD Provost (ex officio)
Ron Januchowski, DO, FACOFP Dean for Virginia Campus (ex officio)
H. Pat Artis, PhD, AF(AIAA), S(SFTE) Professor of Practice, Engineer
Thomas R. Brock Jr., MBA Representative, College-wide Board; General Electric, retired
Larry Carpio, DO Representative from VCOM Virginia Alumni Association; Physician
Alan Fabian, CEO Market President for LewisGale Regional Health System (HCA, Inc.)
Bill Flattery, CEO Vice President Carilion Clinic Western Region, CEO of Carilion New River Valley Medical Center
Roy E. Heaton, DO Associate Professor for Family Medicine at VCOM-Virginia; Physician
Carole Pratt, DDS Senior Advisor Virginia Department of Health
Jeanne Stosser President/CEO at CMG Leasing.com and Owner, SAS Construction, LLC
Chuck Swaha, CPA, CGMA Vice President for Finance and CEO; (ex officio)
Advisors Emeritus — The board wishes to thank its past members for their valuable contributions to the success of the College.
Sterling Ellsworth, MD Vice President for Graduate Medical Education, Capital Division, HCA
David Olive, PhD Representative, Virginia Advisory Board
Jan M. Willcox, DO, FACOFP Past Dean, VCOM-Virginia until October 2023
James F. Wolfe, PhD* President Emeritus
* deceased
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OUR CAMPUSES
Impact of All VCOM Alumni Upon Virginia Osteopathic Physician Growth
All Other DO’s VCOM alumni
3000
225% Total Increase in DO’s Statewide
2500
VCOM-Virginia Inaugural Class Completed Residency in 2010
2000
1500
1000
500
0 TOTAL ACTIVE PRACTICING OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIANS
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
YEAR
March 2025
Physician data and chart created by VCOM's National Center for the Analysis of Healthcare Data and re ects all actively practicing Osteopathic physicians, including residents from our enhanced state licensure data (2025)
Physician Alumni Practicing in Virginia’s Medically Underserved Areas by Medical School
60%
VCOM-Virginia leads in the number of physicians practicing in Medically Underserved Areas
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
IN MEDICALLY UNDERSERVED AREAS
0%
PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL (MD OR DO) PRACTICING
2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011
YEAR
VCOM-Virginia Campus University of Virginia
Liberty University C.O.M.
Eastern Virginia Medical School
Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Tech - Carilion
Data Sources: 2024 NCAHD alumni tracking results from the Enhanced State Licensure (ESL) data; 2024 HRSA Medically Underserved Areas/Population (MUA/P). Original chart created by the National Center for the Analysis of Healthcare Data. March 2025
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The Virginia Campus
Main Campus
VCOM Amphitheater and Walking Paths
Knollwood
VCOM II
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OUR CAMPUSES
Where VCOM Students Come From Classes of 2025-2028 Top Virginia Colleges and Universities
VCOM’s Current Students and Graduates in 2024
Virginia Tech
132
722 current students attending VCOM-Virginia in the Classes of 2025-2028
Virginia Commonwealth University
66
University of Virginia
46
Christopher Newport University
32
George Mason University
28
College of William and Mary
23
James Madison University
23
176 new physicians graduated from the Class of 2024
Other
21
Liberty University
17
Old Dominion University
10
Roanoke College
7
University of Virginia
7
Radford University
6
Virginia Military Institute
6
Bridgewater College
5
Bluefield College
4
Eastern Mennonite University
4
Randolph-Macon College
4
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VCOM-Virginia Recruitment Success VCOM-Virginia Medical Students’ Home Locations Classes of 2007-2028
Total number of students from designated Primary Care Health Professions Shortage Areas 1 , 405
85% of all VCOM-Virginia students from the Target Recruitment Region
Total number of students from designated Rural Areas 2 , 338
Total number of students from designated Medically Underserved Areas or Populations 1 , 542
Data collected by the National Center for the Analysis of Heathcare Data (NCAHD) in February 2025. Data Source: NCAHD’s Spatial Analysis and mapping of VCOM’s Academic Planning, Institutional Effectiveness, and Accreditation Student Data (2024)
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OUR CAMPUSES
Pride and Purpose Matthew D. Cannon, DO Dean for the Carolinas Campus
V COM-Carolinas is a place where excellence in education meets compassion for underserved communities. It is remarkable to reflect on how far we have come—celebrating our tenth graduating class in 2024. In a world that is constantly evolving, our mission remains steadfast: to cultivate globally minded, community-focused physicians who address the critical needs of rural and medically underserved populations. It is awe-inspiring to think that the medical school that chose Spartanburg, South Carolina, as its home just a short time ago has already produced over 1,550 physicians. And yet, this is only the beginning. As a medical school, we pride ourselves on offering a unique blend of rigorous academic training along with countless hands-on experiences. Students learn not only in the classroom but also through real-world engagement, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Through our innovative curriculum, students gain a deep understanding of the specific challenges many communities face. We are intentional in providing opportunities for clinical rotations, community outreach, and collaborative research aimed at improving healthcare access for all individuals. By focusing on these tasks, we develop physicians who are not only highly skilled, but also deeply driven to make a difference.
Beyond academics, the heart of VCOM Carolinas lies in the close-knit, family-like atmosphere we have cultivated. From the moment you step onto our campus, you are welcomed by faculty, staff, and students who genuinely care about your success and well being. Whether collaborating on projects with peers or seeking mentorship from faculty, you will feel a true sense of belonging. Our culture is one of shared dedication—an “all-in” approach where every member of our VCOM community gives their best in pursuit of excellence. “Our culture is one of shared dedication—an ‘all-in’ approach where every member of our VCOM community gives their best in pursuit of excellence.” I invite you to experience it for yourself. The warmth, support, and unwavering commitment to one another at VCOM-Carolinas are not just words—they are the essence of who we are. Here, you will find not just a medical school, but a family—a home away from home, where pride and purpose go hand in hand.
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Carolinas Advisory Board 2024-2025
Deborah West, EdD Provost (ex officio)
John G. Rocovich Jr., JD, LLM Chairman
Dixie Tooke Rawlins, DO, FACOFP President
Matthew Cannon, DO, FACOFP Dean for Carolinas Campus
Graham Adams, PhD CEO, South Carolina Office of Rural Health
Ingo Angermeier Retired President and CEO, Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System
William Barnet, III CEO of William Barnet & Son, Inc.
Jason Hill, DO Physician; Representative from the VCOM Carolinas Alumni Association
Bruce Holstien President and CEO, Spartanburg Regional Healthcare Sysytem
Chuck Swaha, CPA, CGMA Vice President for Finance and CEO, (ex officio)
Lee Sowell Retired Group President/
A. Alan Turfe, MBA CEO and Chairman, Upkara
Steve Trakas Executive Vice President, Gibbs International, Inc.
President Techtronics Industries (TTi) Outdoor Products Group
Advisors Emeritus — The board wishes to thank its past members for their valuable contributions to the success of the College.
Jimmy Gibbs Representative, Carolinas Advisory Board; Founder and Chair of Gibbs International, Inc.
Marlon Hunter CEO of ReGenesis Health Care
Hugh Tappan, MHA, MBA President, South Atlantic Division
Jay Moskowitz, PhD
Harold R. Nicolette, DO*
Nayef H. Samhat
*deceased
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OUR CAMPUSES
Impact of All VCOM Alumni Upon South Carolina Osteopathic Physician Growth
Impact of All VCOM Alumni Upon North Carolina Osteopathic Physician Growth
All Other DO’s VCOM alumni
All Other DO’s VCOM alumni
2000
3500
364% Total Increase in DO’s Statewide
357% Total Increase in DO’s Statewide
3000
1500
2500
VCOM-Carolinas Inaugural Class Completed Residency in 2018
VCOM-Carolinas Inaugural Class Completed Residency in 2018
2000
1000
1500
1000
500
500
0
0
TOTAL ACTIVE PRACTICING OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIANS
TOTAL ACTIVE PRACTICING OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIANS
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
YEAR
YEAR
March 2025
March 2025
Physician data and chart created by VCOM's National Center for the Analysis of Healthcare Data and re ects all actively practicing Osteopathic physicians, including residents from our enhanced state licensure data (2025)
Physician data and chart created by VCOM's National Center for the Analysis of Healthcare Data and re ects all actively practicing Osteopathic physicians, including residents from our enhanced state licensure data (2025)
Physician Alumni Practicing in South Carolina’s Medically Underserved Areas by Medical School
VCOM-Carolinas leads in the number of physicians practicing in Medically Underserved Areas
40%
35%
30%
25%
20%
15%
10%
5%
IN MEDICALLY UNDERSERVED AREAS
0%
2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011
PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL (MD OR DO) PRACTICING
YEAR
Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
University of South Carolina
Medical University of South Carolina
Data Sources: 2024 NCAHD alumni tracking results from the Enhanced State Licensure (ESL) data; 2024 HRSA Medically Underserved Areas/Population (MUA/P). Original chart created by the National Center for the Analysis of Healthcare Data. March 2025
Physician Alumni Practicing in North Carolina’s Medically Underserved Areas by Medical School
40%
35%
30%
25%
20%
15%
10%
5%
IN MEDICALLY UNDERSERVED AREAS
0%
2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011
PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL (MD OR DO) PRACTICING
YEAR
University of North Carolina Wake Forest Univ.
Duke University
Campbell Unviersity School of Osteopathic Medicine Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
East Carolina Univ.
Data Sources: 2024 NCAHD alumni tracking results from the Enhanced State Licensure (ESL) data; 2024 HRSA Medically Underserved Areas/Population (MUA/P). Original chart created by the National Center for the Analysis of Healthcare Data. March 2025
22
The Carolinas Campus
Main Campus
DuPre House
Magnolia Street Buildings
Walkway
23
OUR CAMPUSES
Where VCOM Students Come From Class of 2025-2028 Top North and South Carolina Colleges and Universities
VCOM’s Current Students and Graduates in 2024
University of North Carolina
66
Clemson University
56
642 current students attending VCOM-Carolinas in the Classes of 2025-2028
University of South Carolina
50
North Carolina State University
27
Other North Carolina Colleges and Universities
24
Furman University
19
Other South Carolina Colleges and Universities
19
148 new physicians graduated from the Class of 2024
East Carolina University
18
College of Charleston
13
Wake Forest University
11
Appalachian State University
10
Anderson University
9
Wofford College
8
High Point University
6
Presbyterian College
6
Coastal Carolina University
5
Southern Wesleyan University
5
North Greenville University
4
Winthrop University
4
24
VCOM-Carolinas Recruitment Success VCOM-Carolinas Medical Students’ Home Locations Classes of 2007-2028
Total number of students from designated Primary Care Health Professions Shortage Areas 1 , 020
85% of all VCOM-Carolinas students from the Target Recruitment Region
Total number of students from designated Rural Areas 1 , 126
Total number of students from designated Medically Underserved Areas or Populations 928
Data collected by the National Center for the Analysis of Heathcare Data (NCAHD) in February 2025. Data Source: NCAHD’s Spatial Analysis and mapping of VCOM’s Academic Planning, Institutional Effectiveness, and Accreditation Student Data (2024)
25
OUR CAMPUSES
Fostering Innovation and Strengthening Community Bonds Heath Parker, DO, FACP Dean for the Auburn Campus
A t VCOM-Auburn, we are committed to shaping the next generation of healthcare leaders, driven by a deep-rooted connection to our local communities. More than 80% of our students hail from Alabama and surrounding rural areas, and this unique connection fuels their dedication to improving the health of those they serve. Our students’ journey extends beyond medical education; it is a journey of making a tangible impact on the communities that need them most. In 2024, we continued to build on the success of our educational programs, with a focus on strengthening clinical research opportunities and fostering deeper relationships with our alumni. We are particularly excited about the strong ties we are nurturing with local healthcare providers and organizations. By working together, we can provide not just education, but also lasting support for the health of our communities. A shining example of our commitment to innovation and community service is the success of our Master of Health Sciences in Anesthesia (MHSA) program. Since its inception in 2023, this program has exceeded expectations, quickly becoming a vital resource for training skilled professionals in an area of great need. The program’s success led to its replication on our Carolina’s campus, broadening its impact and reaching even more communities in need of highly trained anesthesia professionals. It’s clear that the demand for specialized healthcare education is high, and we are proud to meet that need head-on. Contributing to our success is the support we have received from donors like BlueCross and Blue Shield of Alabama. Scholarships provided
by their Caring Foundation will help our graduates return to Alabama.
VCOM-Auburn continues to foster a strong culture of community engagement. Our students’ efforts are supported by outreach programs designed to deepen the understanding of osteopathic medicine in local communities. These initiatives create an environment where education and service are
“Our mission’s success is a reflection of our commitment to innovation, community
inseparable, empowering our students to take what they’ve learned and make a difference in real-world settings. I could not be more proud of the remarkable work being done at VCOM-Auburn. Our students are not only gaining the tools to become excellent healthcare providers—they are also embracing the responsibility to lead, innovate, and serve their communities with the knowledge, compassion, and dedication that will shape the future of healthcare. collaboration, and the undeniable success of our students, who are shaping the future of healthcare across the nation.”
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Auburn Advisory Board 2024-2025
John G. Rocovich Jr., JD, LLM Chairman
Dixie Tooke Rawlins, DO, FACOFP President
Deborah West, EdD Provost (ex officio)
Heath Parker, DO, FACP Dean for Auburn Campus (ex officio)
Mark Baker CEO, Jack Hughston Memorial Hospital
Martin Bonick President & Chief Executive Officer, Ardent Health Services
L. Keith Granger Regional President and Market CEO, CHS - Alabama
Laura Grill President and CEO, East Alabama Medical Center
Jimmy Sanford Representative, Auburn Advisory
David Thrasher, MD Pulmonary Medicine, Jackson Hospital
Chuck Swaha, CPA, CGMA Vice President for Finance and CEO; (ex officio)
Board; Auburn University Research Advisory Board
Advisors Emeritus — The board wishes to thank its past members for their valuable contributions to the success of the College.
William G. Anderson, DO
Tim Boosinger
Terry Andrus
Thom Gossum, Jr.
Bill Hardgrave, PhD
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OUR CAMPUSES
Impact of All VCOM Alumni Upon Alabama Osteopathic Physician Growth
All Other DO’s VCOM alumni
1200
VCOM-Auburn Inaugural Class Completed Residency in 2022
1000
188% Total Increase in DO’s Statewide
800
600
400
200
0
TOTAL ACTIVE PRACTICING OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIANS
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
YEAR
March 2025
Physician data and chart created by VCOM's National Center for the Analysis of Healthcare Data and re ects all actively practicing Osteopathic physicians, including residents from our enhanced state licensure data (2025)
Physician Alumni Practicing in Alabama’s Medically Underserved Areas by Medical School
80%
VCOM-Auburn leads in the number of physicians practicing in Medically Underserved Areas
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
IN MEDICALLY UNDERSERVED AREAS
0
PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL (MD OR DO) PRACTICING 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
YEAR
Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine University of South Alabama College of Medicine
Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine University of Alabama School of Medicine
Data Sources: 2024 NCAHD alumni tracking results from the Enhanced State Licensure (ESL) data; 2024 HRSA Medically Underserved Areas/Population (MUA/P). Original chart created by the National Center for the Analysis of Healthcare Data. March 2025
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The Auburn Campus
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OUR CAMPUSES
Where VCOM Students Come From Class of 2025-2028 Top Alabama Colleges and Universities
VCOM’s Current Students and Graduates in 2024
625 current students attending VCOM-Auburn in the Classes of 2025-2028
Auburn University
119
University of Alabama
108
University of South Alabama
18
Samford University
11
Troy University
9
143 new physicians graduated from the Class of 2024
Huntingdon College
9
Other
9
Jacksonville State University
6
Birmingham-Southern College
5
Alabama A&M
4
University of North Alabama
4
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VCOM-Auburn Recruitment Success VCOM-Auburn Medical Students’ Home Locations Classes of 2007-2028
Total number of students from designated Primary Care Health Professions Shortage Areas 900
95% of all VCOM-Auburn students from the Target Recruitment Region
Total number of students from designated Medically Underserved Areas or Populations 913
Total number of students from designated Rural Areas 722
Data collected by the National Center for the Analysis of Heathcare Data (NCAHD) in February 2025. Data Source: NCAHD’s Spatial Analysis and mapping of VCOM’s Academic Planning, Institutional Effectiveness, and Accreditation Student Data (2024)
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OUR CAMPUSES
A Year of Firsts and Milestones Graduating Our Inaugural Class Mark Sanders, DO, JD, MPH, LLM, MS, FACOFP, FCLM Dean for the Louisiana Campus
T his past year was one of extraordinary milestones and growth for VCOM-Louisiana. Our campus continues to fulfill its mission of bringing exceptional osteopathic medical education to the Delta Region and Louisiana’s underserved communities. With each new achievement, we are further cementing our role as a driving force in improving access to healthcare in this unique and vital region. The crowning moment of 2024 came in May with the graduation of VCOM-Louisiana’s inaugural class. These trailblazers entered medical school during unprecedented times and rose to every challenge with resilience and determination. Their success is a testament to the strength of our mission-driven curriculum and the unwavering dedication of our faculty and staff. Our inaugural class achieved a perfect residency match rate, with many graduates choosing primary care specialties and rural practice sites. Another meaningful moment in 2024 was the delivery of our mobile health units. These state of-the-art clinics on wheels will bring critical healthcare services to rural and underserved areas. With them, we will provide screenings, preventive care, and health education to thousands of residents across Louisiana. From disaster training to rural health fairs, our students, faculty, and staff provided essential services to the community. The partnership we established in 2021 with Louisiana’s Region 8 Disaster Relief continued to evolve further in 2024, allowing us to expand the Volunteer Medical Reserve Corps and enhance our disaster-response capabilities.
VCOM-Louisiana remains the first and only osteopathic medical school in the state, and our presence continues to foster greater awareness of osteopathic principles and their life-changing potential.
In 2024, our students’ commitment to service was unparalleled. Whether providing aid during natural disasters or leading initiatives to address social determinants of health, they exemplified the heart of our mission. Their compassion and leadership have strengthened trust within our communities and demonstrated the power of osteopathic medicine in action. With a strong foundation of academic excellence, community engagement, and innovation, our campus is poised to make an even greater impact on the health and wellness of Louisiana and the Delta region. “VCOM-Louisiana remains the first and only osteopathic medical school in the state, and our presence continues to foster greater awareness of osteopathic principles and their life-changing potential.”
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Louisiana Advisory Board 2024-2025
John G. Rocovich Jr., JD, LLM Chairman
Dixie Tooke Rawlins, DO, FACOFP President
Deborah West, EdD Provost (ex officio)
Mark Sanders, DO, JD, MPH, LLM, MS, FACOFP, FCLM Dean for Louisiana Campus
Ron Berry, DBA Past President of the University of Louisiana Monroe
Nick Bruno, PhD Representative, Louisiana Advisory Board; Acting President, University of Louisiana, Monroe
Bruce Hanks Representative, Louisiana Advisory Board; Board of Directors, CenturyLink, Inc.
P. Gary Jones, MD CEO, Chief Medical Officer Vantage Health Plan & Affinity Health Group
Scott McDonald Executive Vice President, Citizens Progressive Bank
Randy Morris Administrator/Owner, West Carroll Health Systems; Chairman of the Board, Rural Hospital Coalition
Chuck Swaha, CPA, CGMA Vice President for Finance and CEO; (ex officio)
Kristin Wolkart EVP, System CNO and Interim Market President, St Dominic Memorial Hospital
Ed Williams, PhD Executive Director Louisiana Osteopathic Medical Association
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OUR CAMPUSES
Impact of All VCOM Alumni Upon Louisiana Osteopathic Physician Growth
All Other DO’s VCOM alumni
800
200% Total Increase in DO’s Statewide
700
600
VCOM-Louisiana Inaugural Class will Complete Residency in 2027
500
400
300
200
100
0
TOTAL ACTIVE PRACTICING OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIANS
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
YEAR
March 2025
Physician data and chart created by VCOM's National Center for the Analysis of Healthcare Data and re ects all actively practicing Osteopathic physicians, including residents from our enhanced state licensure data (2025)
34
The Louisiana Campus
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OUR CAMPUSES
Where VCOM Students Come From Class of 2025-2028 Top Louisiana Colleges and Universities
VCOM’s Current Students and Graduates in 2024
619 current students attending VCOM-Louisiana in the Classes of 2025-2028
Louisiana State University
65
University of Louisiana
39
Louisiana Tech University
35
McNeese State University
11
Nicholls State University
10
139 new physicians graduated from the Class of 2024
Other
10
Northwestern State University
9
Southeastern Louisiana University
8
Xavier University of Louisiana
8
Tulane University
7
Centenary College of Louisiana
5
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VCOM-Louisiana Recruitment Success VCOM-Louisiana Medical Students’ Home Locations Classes of 2007-2028
Total number of students from designated Primary Care Health Professions Shortage Areas 346
90% of all VCOM-Louisiana students from the Target Recruitment Region
Total number of students from designated Rural Areas 380
Total number of students from designated Medically Underserved Areas or Populations 379
Data collected by the National Center for the Analysis of Heathcare Data (NCAHD) in February 2025. Data Source: NCAHD’s Spatial Analysis and mapping of VCOM’s Academic Planning, Institutional Effectiveness, and Accreditation Student Data (2024)
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OUR CAMPUSES
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