April 2004

Life's resurrection

by Matthew Eisen

When I started Life University in 2001, I was amazed at the vibrancy of the school and the number of students, clubs, and passionate teachers. Now, three years later, I have the same sparkle in my eye that I had on January 3, 2001 when I first walked past the Chiropractic Memorial Bell Tower.

Dr. Guy Riekeman is the new president of Life University. Flanking him are Student World Chiropractic Alliance (SWCA) past‑president Sonja M. Parham (far left), Vice President Jason Malucci (l) and President Matthew Eisen (r).

After the news broke about the possible hiring of Guy Riekeman, D.C., there was a feeling of excitement spreading around the campus. A feeling of pride took over my heart as I knew this was a move by the Board of Trustees to strengthen the bond between our great institution and the focus on the science, philosophy, and art of chiropractic.

Life student and Student Council President Kirk Keener said: "This should be a monumental day for life students and alumni. Dr. Riekeman's reputation precedes him and I am honored to be able, as student body president, to serve the students under his tenure. None of us students were fortunate enough to be here at the birth of this great university; however, we are all blessed to be here at its resurrection!"

At the special assembly held on March 4, 2004 by Dr. Charles Ribley, Chairman of Life's Board of Trustees it was clear how much of an impact this was for the school and profession. Influential chiropractors flew in from all around the country to be a part of this special day, including Dr. Gerry Clum, President of Life Chiropractic College West.

The students, faculty, and staff at Life University gave Riekeman an affectionate welcome with a standing ovation and applause that lasted about two minutes.

"Dr. Riekeman epitomizes Life's fundamental commitments to chiropractic scholarship, teaching and service to others," commented Dr. Ribley. "His character and outstanding human qualities have made Dr. Riekeman a valued colleague among chiropractic educators and an inspiration to students."

Riekeman thanked the trustees for "this opportunity to lead a university that I have developed such affection for. As a result of your leadership, the University is now ready to face new challenges and opportunities that lie ahead of us. I know that I have much to learn over the coming months, but I also know that I can depend on the advice and counsel of all members of the Life community, from our faculty, staff and students here on campus to the trustees, alumni and the chiropractic family around the world."

Prior to his arrival at Life, Riekeman served as Chancellor of the Palmer Chiropractic University System that includes Palmer Davenport, Palmer West, Palmer Florida, the Foundation for Chiropractic History, and a center for chiropractic research.

Riekeman was introduced to the Palmer system as the executive director of the Palmer Institute for Professional Advancement where he was instrumental in establishing a variety of professional, managerial, and personal development programs.

He was named President of Palmer Davenport in 1998, where he grew a declining enrollment to maximum capacity: 1,800.

Riekeman's educational credentials include service as a x‑ray instructor, dean of philosophy and vice president of Sherman College of Straight Chiropractic.

While at Sherman, Riekeman worked in development and student recruitment, and assisted in the planning and building of the school's current campus in Spartanburg, South Carolina.           

(Matthew Eisen is a student at Life University in Marietta GA. He is the President of the Student World Chiropractic Alliance Chapter and Vice President of Life University's Student Council.)