Society of Alumni and Friends

2026 Awards

Alumnus of the Year Award Jules Sumkin, D.O. (’80)

The Heritage College Alumnus/Alumna of the Year Award is given to graduates who have distinguished themselves in their careers and personal lives, supported the mission of health promotion and disease prevention and excelled in their service to the osteopathic profession.

Jules Sumkin, D.O., a distinguished member of our inaugural graduating class, has built a career defined by vision, leadership and impact. Currently, he serves as professor of radiology and endowed chair of women’s imaging at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Previously, he served as chairman of the radiology department at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and chief of radiology at Magee-Women’s Hospital of UPMC—positions that placed him at the forefront of academic medicine and clinical innovation.

Early in his career, he faced barriers as a D.O. seeking a radiology appointment. Today, he leads the very field he once fought to enter—a testament to perseverance and excellence. Nationally recognized for his expertise in breast imaging, Sumkin has authored more than 124 peer-reviewed publications, served as Principal Investigator for several NIH grants and multiple industry grants, contributed to leading editorial boards, and been named a Fellow of the American College of Radiology and the Society of Breast Imaging.

His career exemplifies prolific scholarship, transformative leadership and an unwavering commitment to advancing patient care.

Medal of Distinguished Service Award Joan McDonough, D.O. (’85)

The Heritage College Distinguished Service Award is given to a graduate who has supported Ohio University and the Alumni Association through alumni chapters, clubs, societies or other organizations.

Joan McDonough, D.O., devoted 35 distinguished years to the practice of internal medicine, including a decade in private practice and 25 years with Cleveland Clinic, where she retired as vice chair of internal medicine. Her career has been defined by clinical excellence, steady leadership and an unwavering commitment to her patients.

Yet her impact reaches far beyond the walls of any hospital. Even in retirement, she continues to serve—most recently returning from a medical mission trip to Guatemala, where she extended her expertise and compassion to communities in need.

Since the day she graduated, McDonough has been a devoted champion of Ohio University’s Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, pairing professional achievement with enduring institutional leadership. From chairing her 10-year reunion to advancing alumni engagement and serving on numerous local and state committees, her involvement has been both strategic and sustained. Most recently, she chaired the college’s Deans’ Philanthropy Leadership Council, where she helped build a culture of generosity that continues to elevate the college.

McDonough's career reflects a legacy of service, loyalty and transformative leadership.

Medal of Merit Award Jeffrey Hutchison, D.O. (’86)

The Heritage College Medal of Merit Award is given to graduates who have achieved distinction in their chosen field of medicine through commitment and exemplary leadership. This is the college’s most prestigious alumni award.

Jeff Hutchison, D.O., has advanced the field of ophthalmology in Columbus since 1993, pairing surgical excellence with an enduring commitment to education and service. Following residency at Doctors Hospital and a pediatric ophthalmology fellowship at the University of Cincinnati, he returned not simply to practice, but to lead—directing the Doctors Hospital Ophthalmology Residency Program for 23 years and shaping generations of physicians in the process.

His influence extends nationally through leadership roles with the American Osteopathic Association and globally through volunteer surgical service abroad. Since 1995, he has also served as a clinical assistant professor at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, investing deeply in mentorship and graduate medical education. Hutchinson's career reflects distinguished clinical leadership, sustained institutional impact and a lifelong devotion to advancing his profession.

Honorary Alumna Award Connie Lawson-Davis

The Heritage College Honorary Alumni Awards are given to non-alumni who have brought honor, exemplary service and support to the Heritage College. Through significant and selfless contributions at the local, regional and national levels, Honorary Alumni make a positive impact on the college while inspiring the university community.

Connie Lawson-Davis, B.S.Ed., ’67, has devoted more than two decades to elevating alumni engagement and expanding opportunity for students at Ohio University. As a former member of the Ohio University Alumni Association Board and a founder and first vice president of the Ebony Bobcat Network, she has championed national initiatives in mentorship, recruitment and meaningful connection—strengthening the university’s reach and relevance across generations.

For the past decade, she has embraced the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine Cleveland Campus as a dedicated advocate and trusted presence. She has cultivated belonging and community for countless students. Her sustained leadership, vision and steadfast advocacy exemplify the very spirit of the Honorary Alumna Award.

HERITAGE COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE SOCIETY OF ALUMNI AND FRIENDS

INTERESTED IN BECOMING MORE INVOLVED?

As a graduate or friend of the Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, you are part of a proud community of medical professionals. Through the Society of Alumni and Friends, you can: connect with fellow alumni, provide advice to students, support college leadership and help keep tuition affordable.

Membership is open to all with an interest in the Heritage College. Click the button to let us know how you'd like to connect or email Director of Medical Engagement Yumi Choe at choe@ohio.edu.

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Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine

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