The Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine (LMU-DCOM) Anatomical Donation Program recently held a dedication ceremony for a new monument recognizing the anatomical donors interred at Mountain View Cemetery and Memorial Gardens in Harrogate, Tennessee.
The ceremony brought together faculty, staff and students from the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), and Dental programs based at LMU’s Harrogate and Knoxville campuses. Dr. Adam Kolatorowicz, executive director of the Anatomical Donation Program, opened the event by welcoming attendees and reflecting on the significance of the occasion.
“The communal plot has served as a final resting place for our donors since the program’s inception in 2009. The plot has not had a marker indicating what it was, so we felt it was time to give proper recognition to those interred there,” Kolatorowicz said.
Set against the scenic backdrop of the Cumberland Gap, the bench provides a place of reflection for families and friends and offers them an opportunity to honor their loved ones who made the ultimate contribution to medical education.
LMU-DCOM Dean and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Christopher Loyke addressed the audience by emphasizing the essential role anatomical donors play in medical and health professional education.
“Our donors provide an invaluable contribution to the education of future physicians and health professionals. Their selfless gift allows students to gain a deep understanding of human anatomy, which is foundational to their careers in medicine and patient care,” Loyke acknowledged.
Ron Wilde, director of the Anatomical Donation Program, unveiled the newly placed granite bench, which bears the inscription “LMU-DCOM Anatomical Donation Program. Your gift will never be forgotten.” Wilde then led the attendees in a moment of silence to honor the donors.
“This monument complements the Donor Memorial Wall on the main campus behind the Hamilton Math and Science Building, where the names of previous donors are displayed. Now families have a place to sit and visit with their loved ones,” Kolatorowicz said.
The Anatomical Donation Program upholds the values of respect, integrity and professionalism. It funded the project as part of its ongoing commitment to honoring donors and their families. The mission of the program is to oversee those who have voluntarily donated their bodies for anatomical education and research in health professions while ensuring their dignity and respect.
The DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine is located on the campus of Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee, and at LMU-Knoxville in Knoxville, Tennessee. LMU-DCOM is an integral part of LMU’s values-based learning community and is dedicated to preparing the next generation of osteopathic physicians to provide health care in the often-underserved region of Appalachia and beyond. For more information about LMU-DCOM, call 1.800.325.0900, ext. 7082, email dcom@LMUnet.edu, or visit us online at http://med.LMUnet.edu.
