Amid changes in leadership and challenges of a turbulent economy, Des Moines University is squarely positioned for continued success. 2009 was a year of growth and change for Des Moines University.We experienced growth in our total enrollment, growth in our faculty numbers, growth in our research activities and growth in the recognition received by Des…

The University is the first U.S. college or university to earn the highest recognition granted by the Wellness Councils of America.

When Terry Branstad, J.D., was appointed president of DMU in 2003, then-chair of the University’s Board of Trustees, Gil Bucholz, D.O.’58, gave him a mission to “raise the visibility, respect and recognition of Des Moines University, raise money for the University and manage and oversee the institution,” Gov. Branstad told faculty, staff and students in a special campus meeting on Oct. 16. “I have endeavored to never lose sight of that mission.”

In addition to easing the burden of debt, scholarships inspire and motivate the students who receive them.

As a high-quality, high-tech academic institution, DMU will benefit with the addition in 2009 of a provost and chief information officer. So will its students and staff.

When central Iowa takes in an influx of refugees, DMU Clinic is there to provide physical examinations and any needed immunizations as required by the Iowa Department of Public Health.

When undergraduates or other individuals interested in health care careers seek job-shadowing experiences, DMU Clinic welcomes them, too.

The University’s Iowa Simulation Center for Patient Safety and Clinical Skills continues to be a powerful learning resource for the community as well as for DMU students.

The cases and physicians involved in a new podiatric medicine residency in Des Moines will greatly benefit the DMU graduates who experience it. But the residency will serve Iowans, too, by training and keeping more podiatric medical physicians in the state.