Pictured above left: Dr. Brian Dooley and right: Dr. Jack Bourla

A moment of deep symbolism and recognition unfolded during Lyceum 2025 as Sherman College President Jack Bourla, DC, ACP, was honored with the inaugural War Horse Award by the Foundation for Vertebral Subluxation. This distinguished award was created to recognize unwavering leadership in advancing and defending principled chiropractic.

Presented in a powerful ceremony, the award draws inspiration from chiropractic philosopher Dr. Fred Barge’s famous challenge: “Where are the new War Horses?” Dr. Bourla received two handcrafted ceremonial weapons—a Native American War Club and an Upper Missouri Weeping Heart Tomahawk—each encased in glass with a plaque bearing Barge’s words and Dr. Bourla’s name.

The ceremony’s message, delivered by Dr. Matthew McCoy, Vice President of the Foundation, emphasized the spiritual and cultural depth of the award. Drawing parallels between the historical resistance of Native American tribes and the chiropractic profession’s defense of subluxation-centered care, Dr. McCoy described the award as both a tribute and a call to action. “This award is not given for what Jack Bourla has done,” he noted, “but in anticipation of what he must do.”

Each symbolic artifact represents the balance of leadership required in this moment: the war club evokes hands-on dedication and strength; the tomahawk, with its heart-shaped void, symbolizes both defense and diplomacy. Together, they reflect the dual role of Sherman’s President—as warrior and peacemaker, strategist and healer.

The War Horse Award is a visible and lasting tribute to Sherman College’s commitment to principled chiropractic and its mission to preserve the core philosophy of vertebral subluxation-centered care. Future recipients of the award will be selected for demonstrating the same courage and conviction in chiropractic leadership. Congratulations, Dr. Bourla!

Lyceum 2025 was a powerful three-day celebration of Sherman College’s unwavering commitment to principled chiropractic. From the opening ROAR Luncheon to the final moments of the elegant Night of Brilliance Gala, each day was filled with energy, connection, and inspiration.

Day One sparked excitement as we united around the mission of outreach and recruitment at the ROAR Luncheon, followed by a high-energy presentation from Dr. David Serio. The evening brought alumni together for a heartfelt reunion, celebrating bonds that stand the test of time.

On Day Two, Dr. Bourla’s President’s Address grounded us in our shared vision and mission, while thought leaders like Drs. Shawn Dill and Lacey Book challenged us to consider the deeper function of innate intelligence. During his remarks, Dr. Bourla also gave special recognition to David Meltzer, who was awarded an honorary Doctor of Chiropractic Humanities degree from Sherman College, and honored the legacy of Pioneer Class graduate Dr. Arno Burnier with the announcement of a new campus installation in the Scallon building dedicated in his memory. The day concluded with a special gathering to honor our most generous supporters at the President’s Circle and Regent Reception.

We closed out the weekend on Day Three celebrating 20 years of IRAPS, focusing on research, philosophy, and the next 20 years of IRAPS. Dr. Bill Decken reminded us of the importance of clarity and conviction in our chiropractic journey, and the Night of Brilliance Gala brought it all home with elegance, honoring legacy while looking ahead to what’s next.

Lyceum 2025 wasn’t just an event—it was a movement. Thank you to all who made it unforgettable. Want to relive the energy, connection, and inspiration? View the full Lyceum 2025 photo album on Flickr and experience the moments that made this weekend so special.

On May 2, 2025, Sherman College brought its energy and enthusiasm to downtown Spartanburg for the annual Spartanburg Criterium—an evening packed with speed, spirit, and community connection. Students and employees gathered at the Sherman tent to enjoy an exciting night of bicycle racing, fellowshipping and fun after a full day of Lyceum events.

Attendees and volunteers cheered on racers of all ages, celebrated local wellness initiatives, and rallied behind PAL: Play. Advocate. Live Well., a nonprofit promoting healthy lifestyles for children. It was an evening that blended fun with purpose, showing the heart of Sherman’s commitment to community engagement and chiropractic values.

Of course, our mascot Larry the Lion made a roaring appearance—spreading smiles, sharing hugs, and bringing the Sherman spirit to the kids’ races. Together, Sherman showed what it means to support wellness, cheer for others, and live well—on and off campus.

View the full Crit photo album on Flickr. A special thank you to the students and employees who volunteered to host our Sherman tent and share chiropractic!

Congratulations to Joshua Martinez, our featured student in this month’s Sherman Student Spotlight! At Sherman College, we’re proud to highlight students who embody the values of leadership, service, and dedication—and Joshua does just that.

A 12th quarter student from Lockport, IL, Joshua is known for his strong leadership and deep commitment to the chiropractic profession. He currently serves as a student ambassador, leads The Remarkable Practice student club, and is a former president of the Chiropractic Student Government.

Joshua’s journey into chiropractic began in high school after a rotator cuff injury. Thanks to chiropractic care, he was able to stay on the baseball field without missing a single game—a moment that sparked his interest in the body’s natural ability to heal.

Initially considering a PhD in biology to teach, Joshua ultimately followed his heart and chose chiropractic, driven by a passion for the healing arts and the potential to make a difference.

Since beginning his time at Sherman College, Joshua says he has grown tremendously, often stepping outside his comfort zone to embrace leadership opportunities and personal development.

Kudos, Joshua, on this well-deserved recognition! Your hard work, service, and drive inspire us all.

Sherman College of Chiropractic is hosting two recruitment events in Puerto Rico in June. These events provide an excellent opportunity for prospective students to meet members of the admissions team, ask questions, and learn more about a rewarding career in chiropractic.

The first event will be held on Wednesday, June 18, at the Aloft Hotel in Ponce, followed by a second event on Friday, June 20, at the Campo Bravo Restaurant at Rio Bayamon Golf Club. Both sessions run from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM and include light refreshments.

These in-person events are part of Sherman’s ongoing commitment to building connections in diverse communities and welcoming students from across the globe. Sherman has a strong tradition of supporting Puerto Rican students, and we’re excited to continue fostering interest in chiropractic education throughout the island.

If you know someone in Puerto Rico who is curious about chiropractic or considering their next step in education, we invite you to share this opportunity with them. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.

To reserve a spot or learn more, please contact Rolando Rivera at rrivera@sherman.edu or call (787) 603-0493.

Sherman College extends heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated supporters who have recently referred an approved student. Their commitment plays a vital role in mentoring the next generation of chiropractors and ensuring the continued growth of the profession.

William Reddy, DC
Rick West, DC
Jacqueline Joy McClenny, DC  ‘03

We appreciate your support in guiding future leaders on their chiropractic journey!

Our Board of Regents helps inspire the next generation of chiropractors in their pursuit of adjusting the world for a better future through philanthropic giving.

Lily Boyd, DC ‘24
Sam Messina, DC '15 and Joe Messina, DC ‘17
Ali Orr, DC ’24 and Luke Orr, DC '24  
Oisín Millmore, DC
Jenn Troy, DC
Geert De Vries, DC
Anquonette Stiles, DC
D.D. Humber, DC
Grant Lisetor, DC

Click the button below to become a Regent or to explore other philanthropic opportunities.

For more information on becoming a Corporate Regent or a Patron Regent, please contact Dr. Russell Goff at (864) 578-8770, etc. 267 or rggoff@sherman.edu.