Bastyr University recently held its annual Mission and Founders' Awards Gala on campus, an inspirational reminder of the school's important role as an international leader in natural health.
Four individuals received 2010 Founders' Awards, named after the visionaries who helped Bastyr University become a reality. The award recipients distinguished themselves through outstanding professional achievement and service to the University:
- Les Griffith, ND, Student Award : Jennifer Nelson, MA, ND Candidate (2012)
- Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr., ND, Alumnus(a) Award : Kasra Pournadeali, ND
- William A. Mitchell, Jr., ND, Service Merit Award : Leanna Standish, PhD, ND, LAc, FABNO
- Sheila Quinn Service to Society Award : Katherine Rose Hart, MS, CN
Additionally, Maxine Hayes, MD, MPH, state health officer, Washington State Department of Health, was named the recipient of Bastyr's most prestigious honor, the Mission Award, given to those who show leadership in improving the health and well-being of the human community.
"Bastyr University is proud to honor this year's Mission and Founders' Awards winners," University President Daniel K. Church, PhD, said. "It is a great way to recognize those who blazed a trail as well as those who are currently making a positive difference in the field of natural medicine, all at once."
The gala also served as a fundraiser for the University to continue operating as one of the top schools for natural medicine in the country. The event, held Oct. 9, raised $115,000 for scholarships and priority needs for the University. That amount was nearly double the amount raised last year.
About Bastyr University
Bastyr University, located near Seattle, Washington, is internationally recognized as a pioneer in natural medicine. As the largest accredited university for natural health arts and sciences in the U.S., Bastyr offers more than 17 degree and certificate programs in fields such as naturopathic medicine, acupuncture & Oriental medicine, and whole-food nutrition. Founded in 1978, the University now includes a leading-edge research facility (the Bastyr University Research Institute) and outstanding clinical training at Bastyr Center for Natural Health. The University’s second campus, Bastyr University California, opened in San Diego, California, in fall 2012, becoming the state’s first and only accredited school of naturopathic medicine.