DMU President and CEO Named 2026 Trailblazer in Higher Education
WEST DES MOINES, IA (02/05/2026) Angela L. Walker Franklin, PhD, president and CEO of Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences, has been named a recipient of Insight Into Academia Magazine's 2026 Trailblazer in Higher Education Award. This national honor recognizes higher education leaders whose bold, strategic innovation advances institutional excellence, strengthens community and belonging and delivers measurable impact for students, employees and the broader academic ecosystem. Franklin
DMU Clinic Website Earns Recognition in 2025 Digital Health Awards
WEST DES MOINES, IA (01/21/2026) Des Moines University Clinic's website, dmuclinic.org, has earned a bronze award in the Health Information Resource Center's Digital Health Awards. The HIRC is a national information clearinghouse for professionals who work in consumer health fields. The clinic website, launched in 2024, was designed by Coffey Communications in collaboration with Jordan Bohr, DMU's web content and marketing specialist, and members of the university's marketing and communications team.
NBOME Names DMU's Martin Schmidt a National Faculty Chair
WEST DES MOINES, IA (01/21/2026) The National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners, an independent, nonprofit organization that provides competency assessments for osteopathic medical licensure and related health care professions, has announced the appointment of Martin Schmidt, PhD, as a national faculty division chair for biochemistry effective January 2026. Schmidt is a professor of biochemistry and nutrition at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences. He earned his doctorate in biology
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,
DMU O.T.D. Program Earns Accreditation From ACOTE
WEST DES MOINES, IA (12/22/2025) The Doctor of Occupational Therapy program at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences has received accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education. The accreditation, which follows a comprehensive self-study and site visit, allows graduates of the program to sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam and pursue licensure. ACOTE commended DMU's program for its advocacy, development and use of
West Des Moines Chamber Launches High School Leadership Academy to Empower Future Leaders
WEST DES MOINES, IA (February 25, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces the launch of the High School Leadership Academy (HSLA), a new initiative designed to equip students with leadership skills, real-world experience, and career exploration opportunities. Through expert-led sessions, hands-on learning, and direct engagement with professionals, HSLA will help students in grades 9-11 within the West Des Moines Community School District develop the confidence and
