Springtime at Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine (KSUCPM) has always been a season of change and of promise. It is in spring that we bid farewell to another class as they recite the same podiatric physician’s oath that our alumni know so well, and begin their lives as doctors of podiatric medicine. With great pride, I witnessed the class of 2018 begin their careers with a 99% residency match rate. Just as these 105 individuals were beginning their first classes as podiatry students four years ago, I too was taking on a new role as Dean of KSUCPM. My role as Dean of this great institution is the highlight of my career as a podiatric physician, and I am reminded of the magnitude of this honor every spring season during graduation.
Throughout this issue, you will learn of the incredible strides that our students are making both in and out of the classroom through award-winning research studies, international mission trips and national recognition. The collaborative achievements of our faculty and staff continue to demonstrate our fervor for the success of our students and the future of podiatry. I find myself welcoming a new class this summer feeling inspired and energized, and I hope you feel a proud and renewed connection to your alma mater as you read about what we have accomplished together at KSUCPM.
As we enter into another busy summer at the college, we assemble to bring alumni and students together again in our 2nd Annual Alumni Reunion Weekend. Starting Thursday, August 16th, KSUCPM will hold its Inaugural North Coast Foot & Ankle Symposium, hosting nationally renowned speakers and industry lead workshops at a special alumni rate of just $49.The weekend that follows will welcome alumni and friends of the college to the Alumni Reunion on Friday, the Hall of Fame Dinner on Saturday, as well as the annual golf outing on Sunday. All proceeds will benefit the endowed student scholarship fund, which serves to provide key financial support to our students, building a sustainable future for our college.
I hope that if you have not visited the college since your time here, that you take this opportunity to reunite and celebrate with your fellow classmates, staff and current students. Thank you for staying connected and I wish you an enjoyable and productive, but also restful, summer.
Allan M. Boike, DPM, FACFAS
Dean, KSUCPM