Dean William D. Strampel, D.O., opened the ceremony with a greeting
followed by an introduction of the keynote speaker, Steven Pitt,
D.O., MSUCOM Class of 1986. Dr. Pitt shared stories of his years
of experience as a forensic psychiatrist and offered advice for
the graduates on the importance of communication and cooperation
in the medical world. |
The journey was long and
difficult, but for 131 determined men and women, their dreams
were finally realized. The students became doctors as the Michigan
State University College of Osteopathic Medicine held its annual
hooding ceremonies at the Wharton Center on Thursday, May 1.
Hundreds of family, friends and supporters came out to witness
the occasion as the graduates were minted with their new D.O.
degrees.
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Dr. Pitt's address was followed by the presentation of student
awards. William Sanders, D.O., received the Richard L. Alper Memorial
Award for his distinguished community service. The Judith K Weiswasser
Memorial Award, recognizing an outstanding woman graduate, went
to Mia Flor Wimberley, D.O. The Dean's Recognition Award was given
to Nikolai Butki, D.O. and the MOA Outstanding Graduating Senior
Award was presented to Jamil Rizqalla, D.O. Dr. Rizqalla, who is
also the class president, then gave a brief speech to his fellow
classmates. |
| William Falls, Ph.D., associate dean for
Student Services, then presented the degree candidates who were given
their hoods by faculty members Peter Gulick, D.O. and David Kaufman,
D.O. With friends and family cheering them on, the graduates each
took their stroll across the stage to receive the coveted green hood.
Then the new D.O.s recited the Osteopathic Oath, completing their
transition from student to doctor. |
