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KIRKSVILLE, MO. -- A.T. Still University has named a new dean for the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, but she’s no stranger to the community.

Dr. Margaret Wilson, D.O., is familiar with ATSU. She’s a 1982 graduate of KCOM and has served as chair of the Department of Family Medicine, Preventive Medicine and Community Health for ATSU-KCOM since 1995.

Not only that, she has served on the faculty for several years and serves as medical director and staff physician for the Northeast Missouri Family Health Clinic.

“I’m excited to get started and have the opportunity to further work with the students and the curriculum, along with all the great and wonderful staff and faculty we have here,” said Dr. Wilson. “We really want to move forward with the many curricular initiatives we have."

Dr. Wilson grew up in Kirksville and graduated from Truman State University before attending KCOM, and she says it’s an honor to fill this position as dean of the school.

“I’m so excited to be able to work in this role for the university,” said Dr. Wilson. “I've been here as a faculty member for almost 26 years and the chance to work with the students and the faculty and our great administration is just great. I’m really looking forward to working with Dr. Phelps as we move the university and college forward. I'm really proud to be a part of this institution and this community.”

Dr. Wilson will replace interim dean Jeff Suzewits on May 1, 2012, and says she will continue to uphold the university’s image.

“I’m excited to get started and get the opportunity to further work with the students and the curriculum, and all the great and wonderful staff and faculty we have here,” said Dr. Wilson. “We really want to move forward with the many curricular initiatives we have and I really feel excited about getting to work with our new president Dr. Phelps.”

When asked if she ever dreamt of holding this position, Dr. Wilson said not in a million years.

“I was a kid that grew up in Kirksville and my family’s doctor was Dr. Max Gutensohn, so never in my wildest dream did I ever imagine sitting here in this position today,” said Dr. Wilson. “I worked all my life to become a family medicine doctor and that was my goal. I really never imagined that I would have this chance to serve my alma mater and my community at this capacity.”