General Assembly Honors OU-HCOM's 50th Anniversary

The Ohio General Assembly celebrated the lasting impact of the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine on both the House and Senate floors.

During the sessions of the two chambers, lawmakers presented OU-HCOM leaders with formal proclamations recognizing the 50th anniversary of the college.

Jennifer Gwilym, DO, Interim Senior Dean, and Kenneth Johnson, DO, OU-HCOM Vice President for Health Affairs and Senior Strategist for Health Partnerships, accepted the honors. In the Senate, the proclamation was presented by fellow DO Senator Terry Johnson, while in the House Representative Ty Moore offered the commendation.

Founded in 1975 after then-Governor James A. Rhodes signed House Bill 229 into law, the Heritage College welcomed its inaugural class of 24 students less than a year later. Today, the college spans three campuses across Ohio and remains the state’s only osteopathic medical school.

“This recognition reflects not only our history, but also the dedication of our students, faculty and alumni who embody the principles of osteopathic medicine every day,” said Dr. Gwilym. “As we look ahead, we remain committed to preparing compassionate, community-focused physicians who will continue to meet Ohio’s evolving health care needs for generations to come.”

In the proclamation, the Ohio Senate stated confidence that the institution “will continue its steadfast commitment to cultivating skilled, empathetic, and community-focused osteopathic physicians.”

Similarly, the House commendation notes the college “inspires confidence that it will tenaciously maintain its long tradition of excellence for many years to come.”