Friday, January 10, 2014
Fri, 10 Jan 2014 | Christopher Breedlove
Amidst the construction across campus, this morning was a special moment as co-founder Dr. Elmer Towns received a sneak peek of the new Center for Medical and Health Sciences, housing the new College of Osteopathic Medicine (COM). This past fall, Dr. Towns stepped down from serving as dean for Liberty University Baptist Theological Seminary and the School of Religion, announcing his sabbatical, and since has been active in continuing his writings, traveling, and maintaining a mentorship role for Liberty’s leadership.
Dr. James Kribs, chair and associate professor for the Department of Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM), led Dr. Towns on the tour. “It was a special moment for me to walk Dr. Towns through the new medical building, not only because he and Dr. Jerry Falwell had a vision for this school that is now coming to fruition but also to simply spend some time with a man who has contributed so much for the Kingdom of God. I have been blessed so much by his teachings and writings in the six months since I have arrived on campus. It truly was a great experience!”
Dr. Towns was able to see where several classrooms and research areas will be located along with the OMM and Anatomy Labs, and the Standardized Patient rooms. The last stop on the tour was a hidden gem within the medical library on the fourth floor – the President’s Executive Conference Room. It was there that Dr. Towns prayed over the building dedicating it to the Lord while asking for blessings upon the students that begin their medical education. He additionally prayed for the leadership of Dr. Ronnie Martin, dean of the College of Osteopathic Medicine, and President Jerry Falwell, Jr.
“I am excited about the medical school and what God will do through it. I think the building is wonderful, and the staff is a gift of God; the thing that excites me most is the vast number of young people who will be used of God to make an impact in the world,” Towns said.
The College of Osteopathic Medicine will open near the beginning of the summer with classes starting August 4, 2014.