Students

Twelve Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) alumni made history at the Kansas City University Farber-McIntire Campus in Joplin when they became doctors of osteopathic medicine following a commencement ceremony on May 5, 2024. 

At KCU, empathy means caring for our students, our colleagues and our communities. Many times, that happens outside the walls of the classroom. One student organization is using their hands to heal and help others long before they earn their credentials as doctors and dentists.

Second-year dental student Alexon Tiem helped lead efforts to establish a brand-new chapter of the American Student Dental Association (ASDA) at KCU College of Dental Medicine.

Picture walking the sidelines of your favorite NFL team, not merely as a fan but as a member of the team. Jessica Nelson, a lifelong Minnesota Vikings fan, and fourth-year medical student at KCU, is living proof that dedication and passion can pave the way for incredible opportunities. 

At KCU our mission, improving the well-being of the communities we serve, defines everything we do. Taking care of our communities begins with taking care of our students. For D’Angeleau Newsome, that meant taking unique steps to make his commencement experience special.

Twin sisters Biwy D. Cadet and Biwy E. Cadet, both attending Kansas City University (KCU) College of Osteopathic Medicine, share an incredible journey that started in Haiti and took them to new heights in the United States. Their story is one of resilience, determination and the power of education.

A Kansas City University (KCU) osteopathic medicine student is making big strides toward fulfilling KCU’s vision and changing health care for good along the way.

Benjamin Pautler, third-year medical student and anatomy fellow, came to KCU energized to embrace his medical school studies after a gap year. However, it was an inspiring speaker during orientation who planted a seed that would add an unexpected and meaningful layer to his medical education by piquing his interest in the study of bioethics.

Dr. Georges C. Benjamin promotes dream to become the healthiest nation in one generation.

Andrew Kochvar had just started his first year of medical school at KCU when COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic. Though he was several years away from becoming an osteopathic physician, he knew he had to do something to help. 

"It's a complete exhaustion that consumes you.” That is how Regan Hill described what he felt while battling cancer as a young child. Today, the medical student sets out to help children with severe health problems – including those in need of cancer care.

It’s been a year of firsts at Kansas City University College of Dental Medicine, which opened in Joplin in 2023, with 80 students in its first class. Three of those students are recipients of the Indian Health Service’s Health Professions scholarship.