For some medical students, the calling to serve others is not just the foundation for their careers—it’s their guiding star. The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine’s Service Distinction Track exists to help these students gain experience working with medically underserved, marginalized, and rural populations during medical school and inform them on important topics related to service-oriented health careers.

Carver College of Medicine grad Kyle Glienke reflects on his calling to rural and agricultural medicine and his place in Storm Lake, Iowa — the community he loves.

The University of Iowa Physician Assistant Studies and Services Program has a long history of producing outstanding medical professionals, and Stephen Rumelhart, PA-C, is a shining example of this tradition. A proud alum, Rumelhart’s journey through the world of medicine has been marked by dedication, hard work, and a commitment to patient care.

Kathy Edwards is a world-renowned physician, teacher, mentor, and researcher who has made significant contributions to life-saving advances in vaccines. Throughout her career, she has designed and executed clinical trials and educated others on their conduct to ensure the safety and efficacy of vaccines for influenza, pertussis, pneumococcus, and many other pathogens.

Jon Lensing co-founded OpenLoop in 2019, when he was a medical student at the University of Iowa. As CEO of the telehealth company, he has applied his leadership, research, and technology skills to grow the company nationwide with the vision to bring healing anywhere.

John Callaghan is a leading expert in hip and knee surgery with hundreds of research and grant credits. Driven by a continual pursuit of knowledge at the University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, Callaghan dedicated himself as a faculty member, volunteer, and role model to make a positive global impact in his field.

Maria Story, MD, has launched two significant programs while working with Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center: one bringing a home hemodialysis option to southeast Iowa for the first time, and one to help primary care physicians follow patients with chronic illness more effectively and efficiently from home.