VCOM View Vol 8-1

Written by Cindy Shepard Rawlins

W hen a medical student becomes a physician, the education does not stop after graduating from medical school. Each year, during the AOA’s Annual Osteopathic Medical Conference and Exposition (OMED), osteopathic physicians, researchers and other medical experts in a variety of fields share the latest medical research through various presentations and other forums. At the conference, attendees from VCOM reconnected with alumni, colleagues, and old friends through various, entertaining activities. This year, many VCOM students and alumni were honored at the American Osteopathic Foundation (AOF) Honors Gala (see page 7). Also honored was VCOM–Auburn Advisory Board member, William G. Anderson, DO, who was surprised with a crowd-funding appeal commemorating the 15th anniversary of the William G. Anderson Minority Scholarship. At the gala, VCOM President, Dixie Tooke-Rawlins, DO, publically challenged other Deans and colleges to contribute healthy donations to the foundation fund. VCOM hosted a booth in the exhibition hall to re- connect with alumni and network with other physicians and educators. VCOM students also presented and discussed their research posters at the exhibition. On Saturday, October 18, the VCOM Alumni and Development office hosted a Hospitality Suite for conference attendees, inviting VCOM faculty, staff, students, and alumni to mingle with their friends and colleagues, as well as giving students a chance to meet their peers from the other VCOM campuses. The next night, the Alumni office honored VCOM alumni by hosting a red-carpet reception for over 90 people in the John Lennon Room at the Hard Rock Live. The venue featured rare rock memorabilia that had belonged to John Lennon. Guests and their families were given rock star treatment, complete with VCOM’s own paparazzi. Throughout the evening, a John Lennon impersonator provided musical entertainment and photo ops. The memorable evening included a southern-themed buffet and beautiful night views of Universal CityWalk from the private terrace. Left: 1) VCOM students and staff at the exhibit booth. 2) VCOM and other COM student leadership at the American Osteopathic Foundation Honors Award Gala. Above right: 3) Alumni and students gather with Virginia Dean Jan Willcox, DO, at VCOM’s hospitality suite. 4) Auburn Dean Elizabeth Palmarozzi, DO; Carolinas Dean, Tim Kowalski, DO; and VCOM President Dixie Tooke-Rawlins, DO, at Universal CityWalk. 5) “John Lennon” entertained guests in attendance at the alumni event. 6) VCOM guests and alumni on the terrace enjoying the evening.

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VCOM View | www.vcom.edu