Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences Faculty Help Shape Understanding of Ancient Human Relatives
WEST DES MOINES, IA (08/05/2026) Two Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences researchers are helping unravel one of the most intriguing mysteries in human evolution. New findings from the ongoing Homo naledi project suggest that all 20 fossil individuals from a cave in South Africa were female - a discovery that is prompting scientists to reconsider assumptions about this ancient human relative's behavior, social structure and treatment of the dead. Heather Garvin, PhD, a forensic
Des Moines University Professor and Physical Therapist Earns Prestigious APTA Outstanding Research Award
WEST DES MOINES, IA (07/27/2026) Shane McClinton, PT, DPT, PhD, who practices at Des Moines University Clinic and teaches at his alma mater, Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences, earned the American Physical Therapy Association's 2026 Outstanding Research Award. This award promotes the publication of outstanding physical therapy research articles, including both foundational and clinical research impacting practice and patient care. It ties to McClinton's published research in PTJ: Physical
Des Moines University Students Recognized for Statewide Occupational Therapy Outreach
WEST DES MOINES, IA (07/20/2026) Students in the Doctor of Occupational Therapy program at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences recently won the Promote OT Challenge for the state of Iowa. The challenge, hosted by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, involved more than 700 occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant students across the nation who spent the 2025-26 academic year introducing new audiences to the profession. Participants conducted outreach
WEST DES MOINES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES 2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced its 2026 Board of Directors, a group of local and regional leaders who will help guide the Chamber and support the continued growth of the West Des Moines community. Board members will work closely with Chamber staff to support members, set priorities, and strengthen the business community. “Our 2026 Board of Directors includes leaders from a wide range of industries and businesses,
