Blog
In naturopathy, being evidence-informed means leaning on the best available research while also considering a patient’s lived experience and the emerging science that hasn’t yet made its way into formal guidelines. In doing so, naturopathic doctors (NDs) meet patients where they are and create a plan that’s both safe and deeply personal.
To dig deeper into what evidence-informed medicine means in practice, we sat down with Marcia Prenguber, ND, dean of the Naturopathic Medicine program at University of Western States (UWS). A leader in integrative oncology and naturopathic medicine, Dr. Prenguber explains how evidence-informed care can support patients through diagnosis, treatment, and beyond.
Occupational therapy professionals (OTPs) have long been associated with physical rehabilitation, but their expertise increasingly plays a vital role in psychiatric care. From managing the impact of trauma to helping individuals rebuild disrupted lifestyles, the role of occupational therapists has become essential, offering personalized support that helps people function in their daily lives.
At University of Western States (UWS), this intersection of mental and functional health is core to the institution’s philosophy. Guided by a whole-person approach to health, UWS prepares occupational therapists to understand the full complexity of a person’s life, environment, and goals, training them to restore practical function.
Learn more about the impact OTPs are making within the field of mental health
he Community Solution Education System has entered a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Camosun College opening opportunities to develop academic pathways for Camosun students to all six institutions within the nonprofit system.
“The Community Solution was founded with the belief that cooperation among colleges and universities benefits both students and institutions,” said Michael Horowitz, Ph.D., chancellor of The Community Solution Education System. “This partnership with Camosun bridges educational opportunities internationally, allowing students to advance their professional goals and contribute to their communities in a meaningful way.”
The first of these is a formalized pathway for Camosun kinesiology students to access the Doctor of Chiropractic program at University of Western States (UWS).
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Camosun to develop pathways for students to further explore the field of chiropractic care,” said Nathan Long, Ed.D., president of UWS. “This partnership showcases our shared commitment to advancing whole-person health both in the U.S. and in Canada. As a proud member of The Community Solution Education System, we understand the critical role strategic relationships like this have in the advancement of student success and community impact. I look forward to seeing the relationship between UWS and Camosun blossom.”
The MoU will help establish a pathway for undergraduates to further their studies in chiropractic health care. The agreement creates a framework of benefits and collaborative offerings including the exchange of materials, joint research agendas and collection of data, and access to interdisciplinary grant opportunities. Additionally, Camosun kinesiology students enrolling in the chiropractic doctoral program at UWS are eligible to receive transfer credits for three courses (8.5 credits).
Michele Tilstra, Ph.D., OTD, OTR/L, leads UWS’ new two-year hybrid Doctor of Occupational Therapy program, blending clinical expertise with innovative teaching.
Michele Tilstra, Ph.D., OTD, OTR/L, program director of Occupational Therapy at University of Western States, has been a practicing occupational therapist for more than 30 years and is also an eight-year veteran of the higher education classroom. Dr. Tilstra blended her clinical and academic experience to create an innovative new two-year hybrid Doctor of Occupational Therapy program. We spoke with Dr. Tilstra to learn more about what this new Doctor of Occupational Therapy program offers students, graduates, and the communities they serve.
As I reflect on my first year as president of this remarkable institution, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the enduring spirit and commitment that define University of Western States. For 121 years, our university has stood as a beacon of excellence in chiropractic education and care, and it is with renewed energy that we nourish our roots, celebrating and supporting our Doctor of Chiropractic alumni who have carried our mission into communities near and far.
At the same time, UWS is embracing growth and innovation. The launch of our new naturopathic and occupational therapy programs stands as a testament to our dedication to whole-person health and our vision to expand the university’s impact. These additions not only diversify our academic offerings but also reinforce our commitment to advancing integrative health care education. This issue’s cover story captures the relationship between naturopathic medicine and the natural world from which the practice derives. And Michele Tilstra, Ph.D., explains the expertise behind the creation of our new hybrid, two-year Doctor of Occupational Therapy program in a wide-ranging Q&A.
In a time when higher education faces significant challenges, it is the strength of our community—our alumni, faculty, staff, and friends—that positions UWS to thrive. Your engagement, whether through time, talents, or treasure, is more vital than ever as we continue to build on our legacy.
I am also delighted to announce the revitalization of our continuing education program under the leadership of Patrick Battaglia, DC. Our upcoming Summer in December event in Maui exemplifies the spirit of renewal, professional growth, and opportunity that defines UWS today. As we look to the future, I invite each of you to stay connected and engaged, ensuring that our university remains a place of excellence, innovation, and community for generations to come.
