Sherman College of Chiropractic honored alumni, chiropractors, and supporters during its 51st Lyceum event, a homecoming and continuing education event attended by hundreds throughout the U.S. and internationally. Lyceum is held annually for three days, consisting of seminars, special events, and other programs. Over 800 individuals participated in this year’s event, held May 3-5 on the Sherman campus in Spartanburg. The college is proud to announce recipients of Sherman’s 13 prestigious Lyceum awards.
William (Bill) M. Decken, D.C., L.C.P., D.Ph.CS was honored by Sherman College of Chiropractic as the 2024 recipient of two prestigious awards – the Thom and Betty Gelardi Service Award and the Reach Out And Recruit (ROAR) Faculty Member of the Year Award.
The Thom and Betty Gelardi Service Award was created to honor Drs. Thom and Betty Gelardi, Sherman founder and member of the first graduating class, respectively, for their lifelong commitment to Sherman and the chiropractic profession. Recipients of this award mirror the Gelardi’s unselfish dedication, visionary leadership, and pioneering spirit.
The Reach Out And Recruit ROAR Award is presented to the exceptional Sherman faculty member who has gone above and beyond to recruit students to Sherman College.
An esteemed and distinguished chiropractic professional, Dr. Decken is renowned globally for his numerous contributions to the profession. He is also highly respected for his efforts in student recruitment at Sherman College, where he fosters the growth and development of future chiropractors.
Dr. Decken graduated cum laude from Sherman College in 1986, receiving the prestigious Milton W. Garfunkel Award. His academic journey includes a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from Marist College in 1979. Before starting his chiropractic career, Decken taught high school chemistry and conducted toxicology research at Texaco, Inc. His transition to academia occurred in 1987 when he joined the faculty at Sherman College, where he currently serves as professor of clinical sciences and chair of the philosophy department. Dr. Decken’s expertise lies in teaching philosophy and subluxation theory, imparting invaluable knowledge to future chiropractors.
A steadfast presence in the chiropractic community worldwide, Dr. Decken has held significant leadership roles and dedicated eight years of service to the South Carolina Board of Chiropractic Examiners. His passion for chiropractic philosophy led to the development and coordination of Sherman College’s Academy of Chiropractic Philosophers (ACP) program, which he teaches globally. This program offers practitioners a deeper understanding of chiropractic philosophy and its practical application in daily practice.
Dr. Decken’s commitment to advancing chiropractic education and practice is evident through his leadership roles, including President and Chairman of the International Federation of Chiropractors and Organizations (IFCO) and co-founder of the Palmetto State Chiropractic Association (PSCA).
With over 38 years of experience, Dr. Decken operates Family Straight Chiropractic alongside his wife, Grace. Outside of his professional endeavors, Decken finds joy in spending time with his family, cycling, and enjoying the outdoors. His multifaceted contributions to chiropractic education and practice underscore his dedication to advancing the profession and improving the lives of his patients.
Sherman College of Chiropractic provides students with a comprehensive chiropractic education, preparing them to enter the field as Doctor of Chiropractic who are highly skilled, compassionate, ethical, and successful. On its 80-acre campus in South Carolina, Sherman offers a professional degree program unique in its approach to health care and known globally for the skill and art of chiropractic delivered by graduates. For more information, visit www.sherman.edu or call 800-849-8771.
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