BUCOM Students Shine on the National Stage Through Scholarly Achievement
Baptist University College of Osteopathic Medicine (BUCOM) celebrates the recent accomplishments of two students whose scholarly work was highlighted at major national conferences this fall. Their achievements demonstrate BUCOM’s mission to prepare compassionate, skilled physicians who integrate the art and science of healing with a spirit of service, inquiry and excellence.
2nd Lt. Jonathan Hawkins, OMS-II: Honoring history and advancing osteopathic ideals
2nd Lt. Jonathan Hawkins, OMS-II, presented his historical research project, “The Alchemy of Flesh and Fortitude: Sir Archibald McIndoe’s Crucible of Burn Care in WWII’s Fier
y Sky,” at the American College of Surgeons Clinical Congress during the Military Excelsior Surgical Society sessions. His research explored McIndoe’s pioneering burn-care innovations and the holistic healing philosophy that shaped the famed Guinea Pig Club.
He was also selected to deliver a 15-minute oral presentation to the larger society on Dec. 5, 2025. Reflecting on the experience, Hawkins said, “Presenting deepened my appreciation for the osteopathic commitment to holistic healing.”
Ryan Williams, OMS-I: Contributing to research in cystic fibrosis
Ryan Williams, OMS-I, represented BUCOM at the North American Cystic Fibrosis Conference, where he presented his abstract and poster, “Tracheal Swabs and Fecal Swabs Are Sensitive Surrogates for Detecting Pseudomonas aeruginosa Colonization in Cystic Fibrosis Ferrets.” Williams also collaborated on three additional research abstracts focused on inflammation, immune response and airway clearance.
Reflecting on the conference, he said, “Coming together with many other researchers working toward a similar goal was inspiring to my future work in research.”
The scholarly achievements of Hawkins and Williams highlight the growing impact of BUCOM’s research community and the dedication of its students to meaningful discovery.