January 16, 2026 | Shane Adams ’99
The Resch Scholars program not only alleviates the financial burden for top students but also fosters a close-knit community of emerging leaders shaping Graceland’s future in science and technology. When Associate Professor of Allied Health James Geiselman, DC, DACBN, describes the program, his pride is clear. “This is a prestigious scholarship. Being selected is a clear recognition of a student’s dedication to academic excellence,” he said. “Resch Scholars continue to be leaders within their respective majors. They’re detail-oriented, highly motivated, and deeply engaged across campus — often as athletes, student leaders, and mentors to others.”
That balance of drive and curiosity has become the program’s signature feature. Resch Scholars take part in key events, such as the Resch Scholar Speaker Series and Scholar’s Showcase, engaging directly with alumni and professionals who demonstrate how a Graceland education leads to meaningful careers.
Katie Hettrick ’99 Dennis, MD
One of the most rewarding developments, Geiselman said, has been seeing alumni return to Lamoni to invest in the next generation. Among the most recent speakers was Katie Hettrick ’99 Dennis, MD, now Program Director for the Pathology Residency Program and Associate Professor of Pathology for the University of Kansas Health System. “She shared how her time at Graceland — as a volleyball player, a house president, and an engaged student leader — helped shape her into a competitive applicant for medical school,” Geiselman said. “Her story really resonated with our students because it showed how far a Graceland education can take you.”
For students, these alumni encounters are both inspiring and grounding. They witness real-life examples of what is achievable — proof that the curiosity and compassion they develop on “the Hill” can grow into remarkable careers in healthcare, science, and technology.
Geiselman brings that same blend of inspiration and expertise into his own work. In addition to directing the Resch Scholars Program, he teaches in the Allied Health department and speaks at international conferences on topics such as evidence-based nutritional therapy, Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S), and Exertional Rhabdomyolysis.
“Whether I’m teaching in the classroom or speaking to an auditorium of healthcare professionals, I thrive on blending clinical expertise with academic research,” he said. “It’s about inspiring intellectual curiosity and empowering learners with practical, evidence-based strategies.”
By weaving real patient cases and clinical perspectives into his classes, Geiselman helps Resch Scholars connect theory with application — building the kind of analytical and critical-thinking skills that prepare them for competitive graduate and professional programs.
Since its founding in 2022, the Resch Scholars Program has quickly become one of Graceland’s most prestigious opportunities for high-achieving students in the sciences. Geiselman hopes to see it continue to grow.
“Building on the current program is based on donor generosity. I’d love to see it offer even more resources and experiences for students in the years ahead. Our students are eager to learn from those who have walked this path. When alumni share their stories, it brings the full Graceland Experience to life.”
JAMES GEISELMAN, DC, DACBN
Associate Professor of Allied Health
As the program continues to thrive, Geiselman welcomes Graceland alumni working in STEM fields to contribute as guest speakers or mentors.
Contact Dr. James Geiselman:
jfg1@graceland.edu
Academics - Fall 2025 / Winter 2026
January 16, 2026
A Performing Arts roundtable with talented faculty members guiding the next generation of performers and creators.
