William G. Anderson, D.O.’56

William G. Anderson, D.O.’56, former president of the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) and a founding member of the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine’s Board of Directors, will receive an honorary doctor of laws degree at the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine commencement ceremony on May 19. He has held leadership positions including the president of the American Osteopathic Foundation and president of the Michigan Osteopathic Association. He is a member of the AOA Board of Directors and a professor of surgical services and senior advisor to the dean of Michigan State College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he serves as vice president in academic affairs. He is certified in general surgery and a fellow of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons. Anderson began his professional career in the practice of medicine and surgery in Albany, GA, where he was the founder and first president of the Albany Movement, which spearheaded the civil rights movement in southwest Georgia. He worked closely with other leaders, including his late wife, Norma, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., to advance the health and well-being of his Albany community. He and Mrs. Anderson published Autobiographies of a Black Couple of the Greatest Generation in 2004.