I am pleased to invite you to share with us in the events of Commencement 2013 at Des Moines University. This is a significant time for all of us and I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the graduates and the families who have supported them in their educational pursuits.
I would like to thank everyone within the University community for your role in ensuring the success of our graduates. Faculty and staff collectively should be extremely proud as well for your contributions to the academic milestones enjoyed by the members of the class. It truly is a proud time for us all as we celebrate the successes of the next generation of health professionals. The Class of 2013 will join other DMU alumni who fulfill the mission of this school by providing competent and compassionate health care with a focus on primary care, prevention, and wellness.
We are excited to announce that Dr. Connie Mariano, former White House Physician to the President, has accepted our invitation to deliver the Commencement Address. Dr. Mariano, of the Center for Executive Medicine in Scottsdale, Arizona, has achieved an impressive list of “firsts” that include: 1) the first military woman to become the White House Physician to the President, 2) the first woman Director of the White House Medical Unit, and 3) the first Filipino American in US History to become a Navy Rear Admiral. Dr. Mariano received the M.D. degree from the Uniformed Services University School of Medicine in Bethesda, Maryland, and was commissioned as Lieutenant in the United States Navy upon graduation. She completed an internship and residency in Internal Medicine at the Naval Hospital in San Diego.
After completing 24 years of active duty service, Dr. Mariano retired from the Navy. She founded the Center for Executive Medicine in 2005 in Scottsdale, Arizona, where she continues to practice medicine. She recently published the book, The White House Doctor, which chronicles her nine years of service to Presidents George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush.
Also during Commencement Week this year, the University will recognize Dr. Sara Sutton with the honor of Pioneer in Osteopathic Medicine, an honor bestowed upon her by the Board of Trustees for a distinguished and exemplary service to the profession of osteopathic medicine. Over the years, Dr. Sutton has provided leadership in the American Academy of Osteopathy and was recently awarded the 2011 American Osteopathic Association Mentor of the Year honor. After 20 years of service on the DMU Board of Trustees, Dr. Sutton has continued to engage as an Emerita member of the Board. She also has had a long distinguish career as a teacher, serving as an Adjunct Professor of Family Practice. Additionally, Dr. Sutton received national recognition for her expertise in Muscle Energy Technique and has been a role model and mentor to many in the profession.
During Commencement, Dr. Sutton will be celebrating her 60th reunion year and was selected to serve as Grand Marshal in recognition of her distinguished career and service to Des Moines University.
I look forward to celebrating with our University Community on May 24-25. Congratulations to all!
