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Graduation of Healers at WesternU COMP-Northwest

On May 15, 2026, the College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-Northwest, now transitioning to the Heatherington College of Osteopathic Medicine, celebrated the graduation of 101 students. This annual commencement ceremony highlighted not only the achievement of the graduates but also their collective commitment to the art of healing.

Among the distinguished graduates was Davis Mendel, who served as the graduate speaker. He reflected on the diverse backgrounds of his classmates, which included artists, travelers, and firefighters, highlighting the unique journeys each individual took to reach this pivotal moment in their lives. His words underscored a deep belief in humanity, emphasizing that despite their varied paths, they shared a common goal: to give back to their communities as healers.

"Here sit humans who believe in humanity. Individuals who chose to invest emotionally, physically, and financially into the pursuit of helping others," Mendel stated passionately. He reminded his peers that their experiences – the ups and downs alike – shaped them into the compassionate doctors they are today, deserving of this celebratory milestone.

Also addressing the graduates was Dr. Lisa Warren, the Dean of COMP and COMP-Northwest, who communicated the weight of the trust that patients will place in the hands of these new physicians. "Your patients will come to you at their most vulnerable moments—when they are scared, uncertain, or ill. How you communicate and present yourself will be just as impactful as your medical knowledge," she encouraged the graduates. "As you embark on your residency, bear in mind the deeply human foundation of medicine. Strive to earn and protect the trust bestowed upon you by your patients."

The ceremonial day continued with the Osteopathic Oath, led by Dr. Heather Phipps, the Site Dean at COMP-Northwest. She reminded the graduates that this oath symbolizes their journey from students to custodians of the healing profession. With each word of their pledge, they would take on the critical responsibility of tending to both the body and the spirit of their patients, fostering a holistic approach to health.

Among the eager graduates was Martin Allums, who will soon begin his psychiatry residency at Oregon Health and Science University. Allums shared that while he initially pursued an art degree, his journey paved the way to a newfound love for mental health care. His unique blend of art and medicine aims to enhance patient-centered care as he embarks on this essential field.

Another graduate, Sarah Bell Horniman, spoke about her commitment to serving areas in need. With roots in Washington's Kitsap Peninsula, she witnessed firsthand the shortage of primary care providers in her community. Passionate about family medicine, she recognized her ambition to forge lasting bonds with her patients and contribute meaningfully to their care. "Healthcare is an avenue for good, and during my medical journey, I discovered that advocacy and communal involvement are just as vital as clinical problem-solving," Horniman expressed.

As the graduates of COMP-Northwest step into their respective roles in the medical field, they embody a profound commitment to holistic care, echoing the mission of Western University of Health Sciences. With a discernibly diverse and passionate cohort heading into their careers, the future of healthcare holds promise for communities across the region. The event not only celebrated academic milestones but also instilled in its graduates a renewed sense of purpose—a collective investment in the health and dignity of humanity.