Attendees of the 4th Annual Founders Day celebration at Cleveland Chiropractic College were energized by a stellar collection of speakers from the profession. The June 11 special event served as an alternative learning experience for those pursuing the Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree. Founders Day featured Cleveland alumni and clinicians, as well as guests from outside the College, all gathering to share their knowledge with current students.
Dr. Clark Beckley, vice president of student and alumni relations, welcomed the crowd of more than 320 students and special guests gathered in the Assembly Hall by sharing the itinerary for the day. He then lit the fuse for an explosion of knowledge and inspiration, introducing the kickoff presenters, Dr. Michael Perusich ’99 and his wife Jo Ann. The couple operates a thriving practice in Sedalia, Mo., and shared a variety of information with the crowd, including inspirational patient stories. They reminded the audience that as chiropractors, they have earned the right to have an integral role in the care and wellness of their patients.
Students then dispersed into various breakout sessions based on their level of progress in the D.C. chiropractic curriculum. In her session, Cleveland graduate Danielle Hill ’14 shared her recent transition from student to doctor of chiropractic, and how to set your career course for success. Leading other breakout sessions were Cleveland alums, Dr. Kyle Gulledge ’09, who shared his thoughts on chiropractic philosophy, and Dr. Kyle Rupp ’10, who offered guidance on how to develop an evidence-based practice.
Additional offerings came from Dr. Perusich, who shared a presentation about sports chiropractic, and from Jo Ann Perusich, who spoke about practice marketing. Another breakout presentation titled “The Congruent Chiropractor,” was given by special guest, Dr. Mark Sanna. For students in the middle stages of the D.C. program, breakout sessions included demonstrations of various adjusting techniques
Following the morning sessions, attendees returned to the Assembly Hall for a joint keynote address offered by Sanna and Dr. Carl S. Cleveland III, president. Following their presentations, the day concluded with an outdoor lunch featuring entrees of barbecued salmon, pulled pork, barbecued chicken, several sides, and ice cream for dessert.
Beckley said these types of activities are offered to keep the students focused on where they are and what they are trying to become.
“Events like Founders Day are important in that they bring the campus community together for a positive event, which generates comraderie and pride in the College,” Beckley said. “It is important for students to be reminded of our history, and to also be introduced to the opportunities that await them upon graduation.”
To that end, Beckley felt the day was a great success from the very start.
“The kickoff by the Perusichs was one of the highlights,” Beckley said. “They were entertaining and inspirational, which set the tone for the rest of the day.”
Students seemed to find favor with the day’s events, especially those who participated in the adjusting technique sessions. Cleveland student Patrick Romm, offered a positive assessment of the hands-on portion.
“The most memorable part of the day for me was being able to learn about specialty techniques and ask the clinicians questions,” Romm said.
Fellow student, Craig Stramel shared that sentiment, and stressed the importance of activities like Founders Day.
“I liked the one-on-one time with clinicians to improve my adjusting skills,” Stramel said. “These events are a great way to break up the rhythm of the daily grind and remind us of the bigger picture in our profession.”
Jalonna Bowie, director of student services, organized the gathering and reflected on some of the changes made to the day.
“I thought this year’s Founders Day was one of our best,” Bowie said. “We shortened the event from last year with the hope of providing quality information, but in less time, so students and faculty could also enjoy some free time in the afternoon. We believe this will allow everyone to get re-energized for the rest of the trimester.”
Founders Day was conceived as a day to honor the founders of Cleveland Chiropractic College, and to motivate and inspire those pursing a career in chiropractic.
