On April 30, the DMU community lost an exceptional teacher, mentor and leader with the death of Daniel R. Deavers, Ph.D., professor emeritus of physiology and pharmacology.
Dr. Deavers joined the University in 1980 as an assistant professor. He was awarded the rank of associate professor in 1984 and professor in 1992. From 1990 to 1993, he served as chair of the department and was twice elected DMU faculty president.
His students and colleagues praised his teaching skills, accessibility and ability to explain complex concepts in ways that fostered understanding. He was twice named Basic Science Faculty of the Year and, in 1998, received the DMU Distinguished Professor Award. In 2007, the College of Osteopathic Medicine presented him with the Dean’s Award for Outstanding Community Service. In 2009, he was honored by the Student Osteopathic Medical Association with the George W. Northup Outstanding Educator of the Year Award.
Dr. Deavers served his profession and community as well. He was a frequent participant in DMU’s Community Ambassadors Program, which offers presentations on science topics to elementary through undergraduate students, youth groups and other organizations. Often invited to present at professional conferences, he was a member of the Iowa Academy of Science and of committees of the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examinations and National Board of Podiatry Examiners.
“Dan was beloved by everyone at DMU,” says Matthew Henry, Ph.D., associate professor and chair of physiology and pharmacology. “To me, he will always be remembered as a talented educator, mentor, connoisseur of dark chocolate and a good friend.”
Dr. Deavers’ obituary and information about his funeral are available here. Gifts may be made in his memory to the Daniel R. Deavers, Ph.D., Emeritus Faculty Scholarship Fund at DMU.
