Palmer Inspiration List: Who’s making Black history?

Welcome to the Palmer Inspiration List! February is a time to remember the people who have enriched the Black chiropractic community with knowledge, pride, and respect.

We asked Palmer College of Chiropractic students to share whom they look up to in the Black chiropractic community.

Martin Booth, D.C.

Submitted by Remi Jeffries, Florida 11th quarter student

“I am inspired by Martin Booth, D.C. (Florida, ’15) because not only is he an amazing chiropractor, he is extremely active in his community. He is a great example of who a chiropractor should be.”

Latanya Bowman, D.C.

Submitted by Chavon Banks, Main fourth-trimester student

“Latanya Bowman, D.C., brought to my attention that not only can you be successful, but you can have fun educating and redirecting others to optimal health. Black is a color of the rainbow and the faces of African Americans will brighten others with color worldwide.

“Dr. Bowman gave me a glimpse of how my life could be if I strive for it, so she is an all-time favorite.”

Nesly Clerge, D.C.

Submitted by Erika Martin, Florida fourth-quarter student

“I am inspired by Nesly Clerge, D.C. He’s an up-and-coming chiropractor on YouTube in Atlanta. His attention to detail and goals to spread the word about chiropractic in the Black community is something that I inspire to do.”

Teri Payton Dexter, D.C.

Submitted by Amber Lynch, Main fifth-trimester student

“Teri Payton Dexter, D.C. (Main, ’86) is a new addition to the Palmer Main faculty. It’s refreshing to see a woman of color in a  classroom setting motivating other students to be the best chiropractors they can be.

“Dr. Payton advises us to always be kind. the respect you show others makes a world of difference for your patients.”

Aneesah Farris, D.C.

Submitted by Annette Whitehurst, Florida third-quarter student

“Annesah Farris, D.C. (Florida, ’15) inspired me to become a chiropractic physician. Love her hard work and dedication to the healing community.”

Brett Jones, D.C.

Submitted by Phillip Mosley, Main seventh-trimester student

“Amongst so many Black doctors who have impacted my journey in chiropractic, Brett Jones, D.C. has changed the trajectory of my life. The developer of Kairos Training Culture has taught a consistent and powerful message. It’s about the connection over correction.”

Debbie Moore, D.C., LAc

Submitted by Ben Phillips, Main bachelor of science student

“Debbie Moore, D.C., LAc, has been faithfully serving both her community and profession for the past 15 years. Dr. Moore is not only one the front line fighting to expand acupuncturists’ rights to practice throughout Mississippi, but she was also the first licensed African American acupuncturist in her state as well.

“Dr. Moore is a true role model and inspiration not only to the patients that come to her clinics for treatment but also to everyone who is fortunate enough to know her.”

Frank Vaught Jr., D.C.

Submitted by Funda Buthelezi, Main fifth-trimester student

“Shadowing Frank Vaught Jr., D.C. during break inspired me to teach my community about chiropractic. From that visit alone, I learned how important it was for me to go back from where I’m originally from, which is South Africa, and serve.

“Dr. Vaught is also one of the leaders of Evoke Chiropractic Conferences. Attending the conference was the first time I saw many people of color within the chiropractic profession.”

Palmer College of Chiropractic is the first and largest chiropractic college. More chiropractors have graduated from Palmer than any other chiropractic institution. Interested in learning more about attending Palmer College? Visit palmer.edu.