National University of Health Sciences (NUHS) celebrated the hard work and accomplishments of 62 graduating students in various professional and undergraduate programs during its April 20 commencement ceremony. Graduates from the Illinois and Florida campuses both received their diplomas at the event.

Dr. Hunter Doherty “Patch” Adams, MD, served as the commencement speaker. Spring commencement 2018 marked Dr. Adams’ first return to campus since 1999, when he was present at NUHS to deliver the keynote commencement address and receive an honorary doctorate.

He shared memories of his family growing up and his own disillusioning experiences as a medical student. Dr. Adams said he soon realized he needed to have a career that allowed men as well as women to show love and care in their practice of medicine.

His unique and heartfelt message to graduates was to remember that medicine is an art and that they are lifelong learners; that love and humor are two of the most powerful forces in our lives; to be present in the moment, and that care is not a burden – it is a thrill. “If you care, you will be rich for the humor you bring, and for the experience of changing lives.”

His concluding words of insight: “Go out into the world and love everybody for your own pleasure.”

Included in the ceremony were remarks from class valedictorians Roula Johnson, Master of Science in Oriental Medicine program; Kelsey Jackson, Doctor of Chiropractic program, and Alex Orton, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine program. Valedictorians Ayham Dahshan, Bachelor of Science program and Candace Gardner, Master of Science in Acupuncture program were recognized for their scholarship.

In the ceremony’s closing remarks, NUHS President Joseph Stiefel, MS, EdD, DC, echoed the words of Dr. Adams, encouraging students to continue to pursue the joys of lifelong learning. He also took a moment to remember Dr. Daniel Richardson, beloved member of the NUHS community and faculty member for more than 25 years, who passed away earlier in 2018. Dr. Stiefel reminded graduates of the excellent role model and professional example students (including himself) had in Dr. Richardson: to not only be present in each moment, but to “be there” for fellow students, professional colleagues and future patients.

NUHS congratulates the spring 2018 graduating class in the following programs:

College of Professional Studies Doctor of Chiropractic