"I became intrigued by the opportunity because I believe in increasing access to quality health care for rural and underserved populations. Once I visited the University of Dubuque and the City of Dubuque, I knew that I wanted to be here."

"The people! I like to say I have made more friends here in the past few months than I have made in the past few years."

"I am originally from Erie, Pennsylvania, and attended college there at Gannon University. For my graduate degrees, I moved to Ohio and lived there for 18 years. I have since lived and worked in California, Washington State, and Arkansas, which I feel has helped me gain a broad perspective. I am happy to be back in the Midwest and making Iowa my home."

"The two things I enjoy most are patient care and teaching. The fact is, I approach both in the same way. I try to work with both patients and students with an attitude of curiosity about who they are and what I can provide for them. I have treasured the opportunity to meet and work with so many people."

"I am looking forward to seeing it come to fruition and us delivering on our Mission."

"The University of Dubuque has a strong academic tradition and culture of purpose. I think it aligns beautifully with the osteopathic philosophy, and it will help us stay focused on our 'why.' My goal is for everyone to see clearly how we plan and act to meet our Mission."

"An interesting fact is that osteopathic medicine was started by an MD! In 1874, A.T. Still, MD, DO, first introduced the philosophy of osteopathic medicine, which focuses on treating the body as a unit with a natural tendency toward health and self-healing. His pioneering concepts remain the cornerstone of osteopathic medicine today. Through the years, the osteopathic profession has evolved to become one of the fastest-growing segments of health care, making up more than 11% of physicians and 28% of medical students in the U.S. today. DOs practice in every state of the U.S. and in every medical specialty."

"I think the Butlers recognized that osteopathic medicine shares their focus on providing care to rural and underserved communities. DO school graduates are more likely to practice in rural communities, like those in Iowa and nearby states where it's hard to recruit physicians. I am very grateful to have the opportunity to strive for that goal."

"I love the historic nature of downtown Dubuque and the great architecture. I will be excited to see the neighborhoods around the school be revived and enriched by having young people living and studying there, as well as the many faculty and staff who will be present."

"I am still doing a lot of exploring! My current favorite spots to grab a beverage or bite are @Papi's Cafe and Wayfarer Coffee."

"I love going up to Eagle Point Park to elevate my perspective."

"One thing I hope will be remembered about this endeavor is that it will exist of, by, and for the people of Dubuque and other partnering communities."