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"I
enjoy teaching because I like impacting the lives of
students—just as HU’s professors impacted my life when I
was a student. The tradition continues." |
Kathy LePard, a 1989 Huntington University chemistry graduate,
is working to help make us all regular guys and gals.
Kathy is an assistant
professor in the physiology department of the Chicago College of
Osteopathic Medicine at Midwestern University in Downers Grove,
Illinois. She teaches gastrointestinal physiology to medical
students, pharmacy students, physician assistants, and physical
therapists.
“I
enjoy teaching because I like impacting the lives of
students—just as HU’s professors impacted my life when I was a
student. The tradition continues,” Kathy says.
In
addition to her teaching duties, Kathy conducts considerable
research. She’s currently investigating the effects of diabetes
on gastrointestinal motility (movement). Millions of Americans
young and old suffer from ailments of the alimentary canal
brought on by motility dysfunction. The symptoms can be chronic,
painful, and debilitating.
“This research is important because it addresses common
problems—heartburn, constipation, diarrhea,” Kathy says. “These
problems are not usually life-threatening, but can significantly
affect quality of life. It’s rewarding to be a part of the
research community addressing these important issues.”
Kathy earned a doctorate at Ohio State and did postdoctoral work
at Michigan State University before accepting her current
position. Still, there’s always new information to digest during
this golden age of advancements in medical technology. “I attend
international meetings specific to my research field of
gastrointestinal physiology,” Kathy says. “I read extensively.
The societies that I belong to provide publications that help
keep me up to date. And, I converse with colleagues about
scientific advances.”
But
it all started at Huntington University. Because of her impressive
achievements during high school, Kathy earned the coveted
President’s Scholarship for all four of her HU years. Each year,
four incoming students are chosen—from among dozens of
applicants—to receive this scholarship. Criteria include high
academic and personal achievement and the potential to make a
significant contribution to the HU community.
Kathy made the most of the opportunity. “HU did an excellent job
providing me with a wide background of science classes,” she
says. “I received a very good knowledge base in the basic
sciences that I was able to build on in my graduate work. I felt
very prepared for graduate classes in physiology and
biochemistry. While I was still an undergraduate, I was able to
take two J-terms (January terms) off campus to investigate the
medical and research professions to determine which was best
suited to me.”
As
good as the education was, Kathy came to HU for the people. “I
chose Huntington University because of the positive and vibrant
atmosphere created by the student body,” she says. “Students are
friendly, sincere, and caring.”
In
return, faculty and staff strive to nurture students at every
level. “HU contributed to my personal development because the
faculty cares about the students,” Kathy says. “Their sincere
concern for me as an individual was additional motivation to
perform well in my academic studies. Faculty encouraged and
challenged us to develop a God-centered view of creation and
science. They also provided insight into the management of
career and family.”
Kathy found a mentor and a friend in the late James Howald, a
1955 HU graduate and professor of
chemistry. “Professor Howald
demonstrated a genuine interest in my development, both
academically and personally,” Kathy says.
Two
of Kathy’s extracurricular activities were perfect complements
to her career goals. She served as a chemistry lab assistant for
one year and was student athletic trainer for four years. She
also served on the council at Hardy Hall. s
Although her work deals with the physical side of the human
condition, Kathy believes her strong sense of Christian
spirituality shines through. “I try to respond to every person
and situation with respect and love,” Kathy says. “My family has
priority above my work. Daily, I try to perform my job to the
best of my ability. I trust God to direct the everyday
activities of my job and personal life.”
Students wishing to follow in
Kathy’s footsteps—or any other scientific discipline at
Huntington University—can have the benefit of a great new
learning environment in the $16.5 million,
91,000-square-foot home for the Division of Natural and
Mathematical Sciences, which opened in the fall of 2002.
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