President James F. Winterstein of National University of Health Sciences, gave the commencement address to 84 graduates of the University of Western States on Friday, December 14. Located in Portland, Oregon, UWS is one of fifteen accredited chiropractic education programs in the United States.

Dr. Winterstein praised UWS President, Dr. Joseph Brimhall, in his speech, and assured the graduates that they would benefit greatly from the broad-scope education provided by their alma mater.

Dr. Winterstein also spoke to the type of strong character and profound sense of responsibility required for good patient care and professional integrity. He encouraged the future physicians to make their patients their top priority, advising them that treating patients well is the real key to success.  “Take care of your patients, and they will take care of you!”

Additionally, Dr. Winterstein received an honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) degree from UWS during the ceremony.  “The University of Western States wishes to recognize Dr. Winterstein’s dedication and many contributions to education, to the health care professions, to the university and to the human community,” says Dr. Joseph Brimhall, president of the University of Western States.

“Receiving the Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Western States is truly an honor that means a lot to me,” says Dr. Winterstein. “Our two institutions have thrived through decades of challenges and change and have worked together to advance the chiropractic profession. I am very proud to have this association with UWS and it could have no finer leader than Dr. Joseph Brimhall.”

James F. Winterstein has served as National University of Health Sciences’ President for over 26 years. He has been a leader in establishing higher standards for chiropractic education and advocating broad-scope primary care practice for chiropractic physicians. In June of 2013, Dr. Winterstein will be retiring from his role as president, and will continue serving as President Emeritus for his successor.