Bastyr University Founder Receives Appointment.

Health and Education Writers & Editors

KENMORE, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 28, 2000

Dr. Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr., one of the founders of Bastyr University, was recently named to a new position at the school.

Dr. Pizzorno retired from his twenty-two year role as president of the University in June of this year. Since then he has continued to devote considerable time to expanding the knowledge and skill base of natural medicine and to helping shape public policy surrounding complementary and alternative medicine in the U.S. healthcare system. In recognition of his on going contributions to the advancement of natural medicine and the University, the Bastyr University Board of Trustees has awarded Dr. Pizzorno the title of President Emeritus and Senior Advisor to the President. In this role, he will provide support for the University's new president, Dr. Thomas Shepherd, in the areas of public affairs and professional development of natural medicine practitioners.

"We're delighted that Dr. Pizzorno has agreed to continue in a leadership position with Bastyr," said Donald Murphy, Chair of the Board of Trustees. "His influence is greatly felt, not only in the medical community, but also among healthcare policy makers and consumers, and his expertise will be invaluable in helping us guide the institution as it continues to grow."

Dr. Shepherd, who joined Bastyr University in July, also praised the appointment. "I've already had the opportunity to work with Dr. Pizzorno on Bastyr's involvement with the recent visit of the White House Commission on Complementary and Alternative Medicine Policy. I'm very pleased with the results of our work and am grateful to have his support as I address the numerous opportunities the University has before it."

The announcement comes on the heels of another honor for Dr. Pizzorno. In September, he received the "Humanitarian of the Year Award" from the Cancer Treatment Centers of America. The award was presented at the annual convention of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians in Bellevue and acknowledges Pizzorno's "unrelenting pursuit and devotion to the furtherance and acceptance of science based naturopathic medicine." In addition, it credits his work in the area of integrative medicine and the establishment of the first residency program for naturopathic physicians in an allopathic hospital setting.

Dr. Pizzorno has continued to be a much-requested public speaker and media spokesperson both in the U.S. and abroad. He has spoken to such groups as the Harvard Medical School Department of Continuing Education, the American Public Health Association and the American Association for Clinical Chemistry. His book, Total Wellness, was released in 1996. He also co-authored with Bastyr graduate Michael Murray, N.D., The Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine and A Textbook of Natural Medicine; books that have helped define the standards of care for natural medicine.

About Bastyr University

Bastyr University, in Kenmore, Washington, is a fully accredited institution, internationally recognized as a pioneer in the study of natural healing. It is the leading university for natural health sciences in the United States, encompassing a multidisciplinary curriculum, a world-renowned research institute and the largest natural health clinic in the state of Washington. Founded in 1978, Bastyr University integrates the pursuit of scientific knowledge with the wisdom of ancient healing methods and traditional cultures from around the world. Its mission is to serve as a leader -- a vital force -- in the improvement of the health and well being of the human community through education, research and community health care.