Spartanburg, S.C. – Sherman College of Chiropractic honored alumni, chiropractors, and supporters during its 53rd Lyceum, a homecoming and continuing education event attended by hundreds from across the U.S. and abroad. Lyceum is held annually over three days and consists of seminars, special events, and other programs. More than 800 individuals participated in this year’s event, held April 30- May 1-2 on the Sherman campus in Spartanburg. The college is proud to announce the following 2026 award recipients who were recognized at Lyceum:
- Drs. Thom and Betty Gelardi Service Award: Durie “DD” Humber, D.C.
- Chiropractor of the Year: Scott Kelley, D.C., LCP, DPhCS
- Regent of the Year: Andy Daniele, D.C. ‘83
- Community Champion: Charles Harrington, Ph.D.
- Distinguished Service: Claude Lessard, D.C., ‘77
- Spirit of Sherman College: Brittni McBurney, D.C., ‘25 and Benjamin McBurney, D.C., ‘24
- Rising Stars: Kiara Liz Rivera, D.C., ‘24 and Emilio Francisco Jiménez, D.C., ‘23
- Service to Sherman College: Chris Roberson
- Service to the Profession: Brian Moriarty, D.C.
- Chiropractic Advocate of the Year: Jennifer “Jen” Steinberg
- Student Leader of the Year: Kathryn “Katie” Johnson, DC2B
- Reach Out And Recruit (ROAR) Faculty Supporter of the Year Award: Duncan DeVolld, D.C., ‘88
- Reach Out And Recruit (ROAR) Supporter of the Year: Alexis Varady, D.C., ’20 and Blaise Varady, D.C., ’20
- Lifetime Regent Recognition:
- 30 years: Janet Harriger, D.C. ’86
- 30 years: Gary Padden, D.C. ’83 & Cathleen Padden, D.C. ’85
Note: Abbreviated years note graduation from Sherman College of Chiropractic or the earlier name, Sherman College of Straight Chiropractic.
Thom and Betty Gelardi Service Award – Durie “D.D” Humber, D.C.
Created in honor of Sherman’s founders, Drs. Thom and Betty Gelardi, this award recognizes recipients who embody the same qualities as the Gelardis. It is presented to individuals in recognition of their unselfish dedication, visionary leadership, and pioneering spirit. This year’s recipient is Dr. Durie “D.D.” Humber.
Dr. Humber is a distinguished chiropractic leader whose career spans more than 60 years. A 1956 graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic, he practiced for 20 years in the greater Atlanta area and served 24 years as senior vice president of Life University.
Dr. Humber has held key leadership roles over the years, including serving as president of the Georgia Chiropractic Association and the International Chiropractors Association. He has also dedicated over 40 years to Dynamic Essentials as vice president and meeting coordinator, and continues to serve.
Throughout his career, Dr. Humber has embodied the same qualities as Drs. Thom and Betty Gelardi – dedication, visionary leadership, and a pioneering spirit – leaving a lasting impact on the chiropractic profession.
He and his late wife, Beth, are proud parents of four children and have a legacy that includes 15 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
Chiropractors of the Year Award: Scott Kelley, D.C., LCP, DPhCS
The Chiropractor of the Year is awarded to the chiropractor who has, through their service, given extraordinary time and effort to advance Sherman College and the principled chiropractic profession. This year’s recipient is Dr. Scott Kelley.
In recognition of his leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to principled chiropractic, Dr. Scott Kelley has been named Chiropractor of the Year.
Dr. Kelley is a 2012 graduate of Logan University and has been in private practice for 14 years. He is the owner of Back To Life Chiropractic, where he has delivered principled chiropractic care to the greater San Antonio, Texas community for the past seven years.
Committed to advancing his understanding of principled chiropractic and making an impact on the profession and communities he serves, Dr. Kelley completed both the Legion of Chiropractic Philosophers (LCP) and the Diplomate in Philosophic Chiropractic Standards (DPhCS) programs. He is currently serving his third term as president of the Chiropractic Society of Texas, the state’s only principled chiropractic association. In this role, he has been an active presence at Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners (TBCE) meetings, consistently advocating for changes to policies he believes impact the profession.
In addition, Dr. Kelley has been involved with the Chiropractic Freedom Coalition since its inception and has spoken at the Council on Chiropractic Education’s annual business meeting, addressing concerns related to transparency and accreditation. He has also served as a Regent of Sherman College since 2020 and has shared chiropractic philosophy from stages such as Mile High and New Beginnings.
Regent of the Year: Andy Daniele, D.C. ‘83
The Regent of the Year is awarded to a member of the Sherman College Regent Society for their outstanding and continuous advancement of Sherman. This group supports quality chiropractic education and Sherman College through speaking engagements, leadership roles, student referrals, and financial support. This year’s recipient is Dr. Andy Daniele.
Dr. Andrew Daniele, originally from New Jersey, discovered his passion for chiropractic at just 16 after attending a life-changing lecture. He graduated from Sherman College of Straight Chiropractic in 1983 and opened About You Chiropractic the following year. After a long and dedicated career, he retired from active practice in 2021; however, the office continues to serve families as a subluxation-focused practice today.
Dr. Daniele is a past president of the Garden State Chiropractic Society and has remained actively involved in advancing the chiropractic profession, particularly through his ongoing support of Sherman College and its students. The college is deeply grateful for his many contributions and unwavering commitment to its mission. He and his wife, Heather, now reside in Florida.
Community Champion Award: Charles “Charlie” Harrington, Ph.D.
The Community Champion Award recognizes the leadership of an individual, service provider, educator, or community-minded group demonstrating exemplary efforts in a project advancing Sherman College. This year’s recipient is Dr. Charles Harrington.
Charles “Charlie” Harrington, Ph.D., is a professor of interdisciplinary studies and the director of the Center for Interdisciplinary Studies at the University of South Carolina Upstate. A dedicated educator and academic leader, he focuses on strengthening connections among higher education, community organizations, and regional economic development. He also plays a key role in advancing the institution’s partnership initiatives, helping create innovative pathways for student success through collaborative academic programming, including the 3+1 program and a clinic internship partnership with Sherman College.
Dr. Harrington’s teaching and research emphasize interdisciplinary learning, nonprofit leadership, innovation and entrepreneurship, and the expansion of access to social and economic mobility through experiential education. He has authored more than 100 scholarly publications and delivered over 150 presentations at regional, national, and international conferences on topics such as higher education leadership, economic development, entrepreneurship, nonprofit innovation, and Native American business practices.
Beyond the classroom, he is actively engaged in community leadership and nonprofit governance across the Upstate region, serving on numerous boards and advisory groups while supporting initiatives that foster collaboration among universities, healthcare organizations, nonprofits, and local communities.
Dr. Harrington holds a Ph.D. in higher education administration and educational research from Ohio University, an M.S. in nonprofit administration from Drexel University, and both a B.A. in philosophy and a B.S. in mathematics, all from Ohio University. He is married to Dr. Billie Harrington, a professor and senior director of Sherman’s Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning.
Distinguished Service Award: Claude Lessard, D.C., ‘77
The Distinguished Service Award is presented to a Sherman graduate who has distinguished himself or herself through service to the community, the profession, and/or Sherman College. Dr. Claude Lessard is this year’s recipient.
Dr. Lessard, a 1977 graduate of Sherman College, distinguished himself early by receiving both the B.J. Palmer Chiropractic Philosophy Distinction Award and the B.J. Palmer Clinical Excellence Award, the highest awards given to graduating Sherman students. Following graduation, he established a private practice in Yardley, Pennsylvania, where he continues to serve patients nearly 50 years later.
From 1978 to 1983, he co-founded the ADIO Institute of Straight Chiropractic, later known as Pennsylvania College of Chiropractic. During his time there, he served as a professor of chiropractic philosophy, the institution’s first administrative dean, and the inaugural director of its Adjusting Center. He also co-developed ADIO Analysis (muscle palpation), contributing to the advancement of chiropractic technique and education.
Dr. Lessard’s dedication to the profession has been recognized with numerous honors, including the 1999 Spirit of Sherman College of Straight Chiropractic Award and the 2006 Sherman Chiropractor of the Year Award.
A prolific author, Dr. Lessard was a senior contributor to the blog “Chiropractic Outside the Box” from 2012 to 2022 and has written several books on chiropractic, with works translated into multiple languages, including Spanish and French. His publications range from accessible titles like Chiropractic, Amazing Isn’t It? to his modern revision of Chiropractic Text Book by Dr. Ralph W. Stephenson, titled The 2027 Chiropractic Textbook. He remains actively engaged in writing, with additional works forthcoming.
Spirit of Sherman College Award: Benjamin McBurney, D.C., ‘24 and Brittni McBurney, D.C., ‘25
The Spirit of Sherman College Award is presented to a Sherman graduate or graduates who exemplify the true spirit of Sherman College in their professional lives. Drs. Brittni and Benjamin McBurney are this year’s recipients.
Sherman graduates Dr. Ben McBurney, ‘24, and Dr. Brittni McBurney, ‘25, are passionate family chiropractors with advanced postdoctoral training through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), The Pediatric Experience, and The Perinatal Experience. They are dedicated to supporting pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and the healthy development of infants and children through gentle, neurologically focused chiropractic care.
Together, they founded Servant’s Heart Chiropractic, a Christ-centered practice specializing in perinatal, pediatric, and family care, with a mission to help families heal, grow, and thrive according to God’s design.
Rising Star Award: Emilio Francisco Jiménez, D.C., ’23, and Kiara Liz Rivera, D.C., ‘24
The Rising Star Award is presented to a recent Sherman graduate or graduates with five years or less of experience who have demonstrated exceptional achievements and service in their community. This year’s recipients are Emilio Francisco Jiménez, D.C., ’23, and Kiara Liz Rivera, D.C., ’24.
ReAwaken Upper Cervical Chiropractic, in San Juan, Puerto Rico and led by Sherman graduates, Dr. Emilio F. Jimenez Vizcarrondo, ’23, and Dr. Kiara Liz Rivera, ’24, is grounded in a strong commitment to service, heart, and community impact. Their work extends well beyond the walls of their practice through hospital outreach initiatives that bring hope and encouragement to children facing serious health challenges, as well as community wellness challenges that promote accountability in mindfulness, nutrition, movement, and personal growth.
They have also made meaningful contributions to the chiropractic community by building a student network in Puerto Rico, teaching the foundations of upper cervical care, and consistently engaging with chiropractic students and DCs in conversations about business systems, service, and communication that encourage shared growth and development.
Among their proudest accomplishments is the broad impact of their social media presence, which has allowed them to reach and inspire communities across Puerto Rico while also helping establish one of the few thriving straight chiropractic practices in their region, all in just the first year and a half.
Recognized as Sherman College of Chiropractic Rising Stars for 2026, Drs. Emilio and Kiara are honored to continue living, breathing, and serving through chiropractic, viewing their journey as only the beginning of something far greater.
Service to Sherman College Award: Chris Roberson, B.S.
The Service to Sherman Award is presented to the individual who has demonstrated extraordinary, unselfish, and noteworthy service to Sherman College. This year’s recipient is Chris Robertson, B.S.
Chris has served as director of financial aid at Sherman since June 2019 and brings nearly 16 years of financial aid experience. In his role, he supports students through every stage while at Sherman – from initial enrollment through graduation and beyond – ensuring they have the guidance and resources needed to succeed.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, Chris has made a lasting impact on campus culture through his enthusiasm, creativity, and unmistakable spirit, which his coworkers consistently describe as contagious and deeply appreciated. He helped revive the Sherman softball team in 2022, managing two teams over four seasons and popularizing the rallying phrase “Stay hot.” He also played a key role in expanding the college’s involvement in the Spartanburg County Walk to End Alzheimer’s beginning in 2023 and unofficially launched the “On Wednesdays We Wear Pink” tradition during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which quickly became a campus-wide weekly tradition. Additionally, he has served as the Lyceum team lead for golf cart operations for the past five years.
Chris truly embodies Sherman’s “Obsessed with Student Success” philosophy, a passion evident in his daily interactions with students, whether at intern pinnings, at graduation, or in casual conversations across campus. He has also had the honor of officiating two student weddings in 2024 and will officiate another Sherman couple’s wedding this fall.
Service to the Profession Award: Brian Moriarty, D.C.
The Service to the Profession Award is presented to an individual or individuals who demonstrate extraordinary, selfless, and noteworthy service to the chiropractic profession. This year’s recipient is Dr. Brian Moriarty.
Dr. Brian Moriarty has served as the president of the Florida Chiropractic Society (FCS) since 2023 and is the owner and president of Loving Chiropractic of Stuart, a high-volume family practice in Stuart, Florida. For more than a decade, he has worked tirelessly to defend principled chiropractic throughout Florida.
Dr. Moriarty is a frequent speaker and emcee at Dynamic Essentials and has presented to numerous chiropractic organizations, including the FCS, the Georgia Council of Chiropractic, the Connecticut Chiropractic Council, and Mile High. In 2024, Dr. Moriarty was elected to the Martin County School Board, where he continues to advocate for improved access to chiropractic care for students. He is also a member of the International Federation of Chiropractors and Organizations (IFCO) and the Sherman College Regent Society.
On behalf of the FCS, Dr. Moriarty has played an active role in legislative efforts in Tallahassee. He has been a strong voice in opposition to scope expansion efforts such as dry needling, injectables, and prescriptive rights for chiropractors in Florida, while building strong relationships with state leadership, including the speaker of the house and other elected officials.
In 2023, he co-founded “THE Meeting,” which has since evolved into the Chiropractic Freedom Coalition, where he remains an active participant. Having recently celebrated 20 years in practice, Dr. Moriarty is honored to serve a profession that has profoundly impacted his life.
Chiropractic Advocate of the Year: Jennifer “Jen” Steinberg
The Chiropractic Advocate of the Year Award is presented to a non-chiropractor who has contributed significantly and in a noteworthy manner to the advancement of Sherman College and the chiropractic profession. This year’s recipient is Jennifer “Jen” Steinberg.
Jen Steinberg is a chiropractic assistant, office manager, and proud professional “chiro-spouse.” She and her husband, Dr. Bruce Steinberg, own and operate a thriving practice in Queensbury, New York. Together, they have been dedicated Regents and supporters of Sherman College for more than a decade.
Since 2018, Jen has served as the administrative director of the International Federation of Chiropractors and Organizations (IFCO) and is an active member of the Chiropractic Freedom Coalition Strategic Planning Team, where she advocates passionately for the future of chiropractic. She also serves as the unofficial but much-valued “First Lady” of Delta Sigma Chi fraternity, a role she deeply values.
Jen is a sought-after chiropractic assistant trainer at national and state conventions, having presented for Sherman College, the New York State Chiropractic Council, New Beginnings, Mile High, and The League of Chiropractic Women.
Student Leader of the Year Award: Kathryn “Katie” Johnson, DC2B
The Student of the Year is awarded to an exceptional Sherman student leader who has participated in recruiting activities that have led to student enrollment at Sherman College. This year’s recipient is Kathryn “Katie” Johnson.
Katie Johnson, DC2B, is a quarter 14 student at Sherman College whose leadership and service have significantly shaped the student community. She has served as a student ambassador for 10 quarters, including an officer during the 2024–2025 academic year, and represented Sherman with excellence, integrity, and care. Katie’s campus involvement also includes service on the Student Conduct Review Board, co-founding the Technique Mastery Club, and holding leadership roles as secretary and vice president of the Applied Kinesiology Club, among other organizations.
Much of Katie’s impact has taken place behind the scenes through mentoring peers, supporting admissions and recruiting efforts, and intentionally developing future leaders. She is also recognized for her training and presentations on collaborative, team-based leadership for student organizations, consistently fostering growth in those around her.
Committed to professional excellence, Katie has earned certification in Applied Kinesiology and Torque Release Technique while continuing extensive preparation to become a chiropractor, business owner, and community leader.
Following graduation, Katie plans to join her mentor, Dr. Nick Penzarella, in practice in the Boston, Massachusetts, area and eventually open a practice in the Boston MetroWest region with Sherman classmate Savannah Volmer, while continuing her dedication to principled, patient-centered care.
Reach Out And Recruit (ROAR) Supporter of the Year Award: Alexis Varady, D.C., ’20, and Blaise Varady, D.C., ‘20
The ROAR Supporter of the Year award is given to an exceptional ROAR member who has exceeded expectations in recruiting students to Sherman College. This year’s recipients are Alexis Varady, D.C., ’20, and Blaise Varady, D.C., ’20.
Drs. Alexis and Blaise Varady, both 2020 Sherman graduates, are the owners and operators of Unbridled Spirit Healing Center, a nervous system–focused chiropractic practice in Richmond, Kentucky.
Dr. Alexis focuses on prenatal and pediatric care, guiding mothers and babies through Webster and tonal techniques, complemented by her experience as a doula, childbirth educator, and breastfeeding counselor. Dr. Blaise specializes in upper cervical chiropractic care, utilizing HIO/toggle and tonal techniques to support optimal nervous system function and overall well-being.
Together, with their dedicated team, they provide gentle, neurologically based chiropractic care for families at every stage of life.
Reach Out And Recruit (ROAR) Faculty Supporter of the Year Award: Duncan DeVolld, D.C., ‘88
The Reach Out And Recruit (ROAR) award is given to an exceptional ROAR faculty member who has gone above and beyond to recruit students to Sherman College. This year’s recipient is Duncan Devolld, D.C., ’88.
Dr. DeVolld is a 1988 graduate of Sherman College and currently serves his alma mater as an instructor of clinical sciences and a Chiropractic Center case doctor. He finds great fulfillment in sharing chiropractic with others, which is especially evident through his involvement as a demonstrator at the college’s premier recruiting event, Showcase Sherman Weekend.
He often reflects on a quote shared with him by Dr. Thom Gelardi, originally attributed to Winston Churchill: “The truth is incontrovertible; malice may attack it, ignorance may deride it, but in the end, there it is.”
Lifetime Regent Awards – 30 Years: Gary Padden, D.C. ’83; Cathleen Padden, D.C. ’85; and Janet Harriger, D.C. ’86
The Lifetime Regent Recognition Award honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to Sherman College of Chiropractic by serving as Regent donors in good standing for 30 or more years. It celebrates their enduring commitment and recognizes them as lifetime supporters whose sustained generosity has significantly advanced the college’s mission.
The recipients of this year’s 30-year Lifetime Regent Awards are Janet Harriger, D.C. ’86, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania; Gary Padden, D.C. ’83; and Cathleen Padden, D.C. ’85, of Lakeview, Michigan.
Link to photos via Flickr
About Sherman College of Chiropractic. Sherman College of Chiropractic provides students with a comprehensive chiropractic education, preparing them to enter the field as doctors of chiropractic who are highly skilled, compassionate, ethical, and successful. On its 80-acre campus in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Sherman offers a professional degree program that is separate and distinct from all other professions and is known globally for the skill and art of chiropractic delivered by its graduates. For more information, visit www.sherman.edu or call 800-849-8771.
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www.sherman.edu