ATSU-KCOM’s Dr. Jeff Davis named MAOPS’ 2026 Wilbur T. Hill Distinguished Service Award Winner

ATSU-KCOM's Dr. Jeff Davis named MAOPS' 2026 Wilbur T. Hill Distinguished Service Award Winner

A.T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine's (ATSU-KCOM) Jeff Davis, DO, CMD, '00, assistant dean, clinical affairs, was named the 2026 Wilbur T. Hill, DO, Distinguished Service Award winner by the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons (MAOPS).

The award is MAOPS' highest honor and recognizes extraordinary commitment, leadership, and service to the osteopathic profession.

"Dr. Davis exemplifies the very essence of this award," said MAOPS Executive Director Brian Bowles. "His leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to our mission make him not only a distinguished physician but also a role model for our entire profession."

Dr. Davis has been a long-time leader and advocate within MAOPS and is one of the youngest recipients of this award. Historically, the honor has been bestowed upon individuals nearing the culmination of their careers. However, this year's selection underscores a different narrative, recognizing a physician whose impactful contributions are already profound and whose leadership continues to shape the profession's future.

A member of MAOPS for decades, Dr. Davis was among the organization's earliest Wetzel Scholars in 1998. Since then, he has demonstrated unwavering dedication, serving in numerous leadership roles across virtually every committee within the organization. He currently chairs the Finance and Audit Committee and remains actively involved in advancing MAOPS initiatives.

Dr. Davis has also played a pivotal role at the national level, serving as a delegate to the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) for over 20 years. In 2017, he served as president of MAOPS and continues to lend his expertise through ongoing committee work and leadership contributions.

Widely recognized for his advocacy, Dr. Davis has been instrumental in shaping healthcare policy at both the state and national levels. He is known for building strong, lasting relationships with state and federal legislators, who frequently seek insight on key healthcare issues. His proactive engagement ensures that the voice of osteopathic physicians remains influential in policy discussions.

In addition to his work within MAOPS, Dr. Davis currently serves on the AOA Board of Trustees, where he recently led the organization's Strategic Planning Process. He also has served in back-to-back years as the chair of the AOA's Committee on AOA Governance and Organizational Structure. In this capacity, he continues to champion the priorities and perspectives of MAOPS and the osteopathic medical profession on a national stage.