A large crowd converged on the campus of Cleveland Chiropractic College-Kansas City Oct. 7-9, as alums returned to take part in annual Homecoming festivities. More than 190 doctors of chiropractic from 15 states and Puerto Rico joined more than 300 students and 26 exhibitors for a weekend of networking and learning about their profession. Just as in previous years, it was a perfect blend of the past, present and future of the profession.
The theme this year, “Get In The Game: Sports Chiropractic,” was chosen because of
the increasing demand for this type of specialized practitioner. From youth sports to those playing on the professional level, chiropractors now play a larger role in the lives of athletes. The educational offerings focused on the treatment and prevention of injuries suffered by those in athletic pursuits and how chiropractic has become increasingly more important in the healing process.
Dr. Jeff Spencer ’88, chiropractor for the United States Postal Service (USPS) cycling team in the Tour de France, was the keynote speaker. Spencer has treated seven-time Tour de France champion and USPS team member Lance Armstrong, along with a host of other professional athletes. His speech titled, “Recovery from Sports Injury,” offered attendees information about returning to good competitive form following injury and outlined the methods he uses to complete that transition.
“Dr. Spencer reminded me of how important connective tissue is and how it is possible to think of connective tissue as another organ system that connects all the other systems,” Matthew Hidy, current student, said. “There were many great doctors I visited with who have great things to say about chiropractic today and they were very encouraging of me and my interest.”
Other speakers on Friday included Dr. Sheila Wilson ’95, who offered “Sports Injuries and the Female Athlete;” and Dr. Bruce Bond’s “Nutrition: DDD and Osteoarthritis.” Saturday featured Dr. Jeremy Rodgers ’98 on the main stage to present his “Sports Chiropractic Sampler,” followed by Dr. Michael Perusich ’99, who detailed care for teams in his presentation titled “Becoming a Team Physican.” Dr. Bill Austin led the Sunday morning session presenting “Spider Tech for the Chiropractic Adjustment.” He was followed by Dr. Mark Pfefer ’88 in the afternoon, who presented “Concussion Diagnosis and Management.”
Dr. Clark Beckley, vice president of campus relations, said the reaction from most who attended was favorable.
“I went through the evaluations of the presenters and the vast majority of the responses were positive,” Beckley said. “I engaged many alums and most were happy with the overall program. Some would’ve liked to have a few less educational hours and possibly a motivational speaker. And others would like more social opportunities. Those are all things we’ll consider for next year.”
Beckley, who also serves as interim director of alumni services, was also complimentary of the many Clevelanders that came together to make Homecoming 2011 an event to remember.
“The weekend was a success because of the tremendous supporting cast that we have at the College,” Beckley said. “The facilities team is outstanding. Sarah Hilliard, professional development program manager, worked tirelessly and was extremely organized. I’d also like to recognize Marjorie Bradshaw, Communications and I.T. for their work prior to and during Homecoming.”
Current CCC student Tyler Craig was pleased with the exhibitors and the interaction with alumni.
“The vendors had a lot of useful products and information to share, especially Mike Everett and Drs. Thuli, Lloyd, and Anthony,” Craig said. “I think the opportunity to network with alumni was great and more students should take advantage of that.”
Special recognition during the weekend was given to a 50-year alum of the College, Dr. David Vickerman ’61 of Cabool, Mo. Vickerman was presented with a framed series of four photos representing each location of the college during its nearly 100 years in Kansas City. Also recognized was the 2011 Alum of the Year, Dr. Dale Huntington ’70, of Springdale, Ark. Huntington received a plaque inscribed with his honor.
