Northeast Hosts Winter 2022 Ceremonies, Advances 84 Students, Celebrates Two ACC Fellows

Northeast College of Health Sciences recently hosted its Winter 2022 ceremonies to honor student milestones and achievements. The Transitions Ceremony was held on March 31, and the Winter Commencement ceremony on April 2; both at the Standard Process Health and Fitness Center on the College's Seneca Falls campus.

In addition to the two ceremonies, 22 first-trimester students beginning their doctor of chiropractic education were invited to take the Northeast Commitment to Excellence pledge on March 30 together on campus. President Dr. Michael Mestan presented each student with a pin reflecting the College mission that reads: "Excellence. Professionalism. Leadership." Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Anne Killen recited the College's Aspirational Code and Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Jean-Nicolas Poirier gave students advice on how to make their educational journey at Northeast a transformative one.

Transitions Ceremony Celebrates Seventh-Tri Students

During Northeast College's Transitions Ceremony, 29 seventh-trimester chiropractic students received their official white coats, signifying the start of their outpatient clinical education. To successfully reach this milestone on their path to becoming doctors, Northeast chiropractic students must complete over two years of training in foundational sciences, clinical sciences, integrated chiropractic therapies and principles of chiropractic practice, followed by a clerkship in the campus health center. In addition, students have likely completed two of the four parts of the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) tests they need for state licensure.

At the ceremony, awards were presented to students for academic excellence, and keynote speaker Dr. Anthony Palumbo, president of the New York State Chiropractic Association (NYSCA) and adjunct instructor of continuing education at Northeast, addressed the students. As he reflected on his 20+ years in the industry, Palumbo said his role now, more than ever, is to support students and new doctors of chiropractic for the same success he has had.

Winter 2022 Commencement Honors New Doctors

Thirty-three new doctors of chiropractic received their diplomas during Northeast's Commencement Ceremony. This degree is earned after 10 trimesters of study, including courses in areas like biochemistry, gross anatomy, neuroscience, nutrition and business management, as well as extensive hands-on clinical experience and research.

Student Government Association Executive President Fawod Majidi (D.C. '22) addressed the graduating class, noting, "As you complete your time at Northeast College, I could not be more excited for the potential future of our profession. You all leave here with a strong foundation in education and skills that will allow you to flourish as a healthcare provider." Majidi concluded, "I encourage you to continue to pursue excellence. Continue to be the best versions of yourselves and be advocates for the positive change you hope to see in the world."

Keynote Speaker Dr. Wayne Wolfson, president of NCMIC Insurance Company and National Chiropractic Mutual Holding Company, addressed Northeast graduates. He presented advice and inspiration from his many years as a leader in the industry, including as past chairman of the Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine, director of the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners, and past president of the Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards.

Dr. Matthew Coté (D.C. '80), senior clinician at the Depew Health Center, was the grand marshal of the event; Dr. Menzo Case, member of Northeast's Board of Trustees, presented the trustee greeting; and Associate Professor Dr. Gerald Stevens (D.C. '01) delivered the faculty address.  

Two New American College of Chiropractors Fellows Appointed

Two new Fellows were appointed to the American College of Chiropractors (ACC) during the Commencement Ceremony -- both with close ties to Northeast College. Northeast alumnus and Dean of Online Education Peter Nickless (D.C. '00) and Dr. Todd Knudsen, Northeast vice president of stakeholder engagement, were both tapped for the prestigious honor as new fellows of the ACC.