Des Moines University may be better known for the high quality of its educational programs than its research enterprise, but Jeffrey Gray, M.S., Ph.D., believes the latter strengthens the former.

Happy birthday to the “other white coat” program that is preparing students for a profession expected to grow exponentially in the years ahead. DMU’s PA grads will be ready: The Class of 2011, for example, had a 98 percent first-time pass rate on the certifying exam.

Des Moines University has a new educational resource for students and faculty, courtesy of Brad Bakotic, D.P.M., D.O., and his company. The Bako Pathology Clinical Skills Lab and Classroom is the result of a $100,000 gift from Bako Pathology Services in Alpharetta, GA, where Bakotic is chief executive officer.

Growing up in Pleasant Grove, UT, Ted Butterfield was often told he was a natural leader whom others would gladly follow – even, he admits, “sometimes in mischievous ways.” The American Podiatric Medical Students’ Association affirmed his leadership abilities by honoring him with the association’s 2011 Leadership Award.

Once upon a time, Laurie Clair was the homeless single mother of a three-month-old. That didn’t stop her from pursuing her professional dream. What sustained her were her enormous work ethic, some strong and loyal supporters and a strategically placed Post-it note.

Known for their community service, DMU students were again out in full force this fall. As volunteers and fundraisers for worthy medical causes, they continued to help make life better for others – although they would tell you they’re the ones who reap the benefits.

No relaxing beach time for these high-achievers: Five DMU students spent their summer conducting research, producing reports and planning programs and events for the World Health Organization and one of its public health agencies, the Pan American Health Organization. Their experiences further ignited their professional passions.

This photo captures two experiences to treasure: first, the donning of a white coat; second, a child’s loving kiss. Two-year-old Katherine Rose Cloos planted a well-deserved wet one on her father, Michael Cloos, at the University’s White Coat Ceremony in August, under the fond gaze of his mother-in-law, Christine Asbury.