Honoring the Future: Sherman College Students and Leaders Recognized by the Foundation for Vertebral Subluxation
Originally published: 2025-05-15
During Sherman College of Chiropractic’s May 2025 Lyceum, the Foundation for Vertebral Subluxation (FVS), along with ChiroFutures Malpractice Insurance Program, presented a series of prestigious awards recognizing outstanding students and faculty whose work exemplifies the mission of advancing vertebral subluxation-centered research, education, and care. The recipients represent the future of principled chiropractic—committed to preserving its identity and expanding its scientific and philosophical foundations.
“These students are the seeds of tomorrow’s principled profession,” said Christopher Kent, DC, JD, MBA, President of the Foundation for Vertebral Subluxation.
“We are proud to support them as they carry the torch of subluxation-centered science forward.”
Young Researcher Awards Go to Nicholas Foster and Caroline Estabrook
Two Young Researcher Awards were presented to Nicholas Foster and Caroline Estabrook for their exceptional dedication to chiropractic research focused on vertebral subluxation. These awards reflect FVS’s continued mission to foster and fund research that aligns with chiropractic’s original intent and unique contribution to healthcare.
“Nicholas and Caroline represent the intellectual rigor and philosophical clarity we need,” said Matthew McCoy, DC, MPH, Vice President of the Foundation.
“Their work ensures the research future of subluxation-centered chiropractic is in capable hands.”
Christopher Kent Scholarship Awarded to Julie Ludovici Ward
The Christopher Kent Scholarship Award was presented to Julie Ludovici Ward in recognition of her outstanding contributions to research grounded in vertebral subluxation. This scholarship, named after the Foundation’s President, is reserved for students whose work reflects an integration of chiropractic principles with scholarly excellence.
“Julie’s work reflects the synthesis of science and principle,” said Dr. Kent.
“This is the type of leadership our profession must cultivate.”
Guardian of the Principle Award Presented to Dr. Alan Brewster
The Guardian of the Principle Award was awarded to Alan Brewster, DC, Director of Research at Sherman College and the new Research Fellows Program Coordinator for the Foundation. This honor recognizes his efforts to preserve and transmit chiropractic principles through research and education.
“Dr. Brewster’s leadership ensures that the next generation of chiropractic researchers are not only competent scientists, but also principled chiropractors,” said Dr. Anquonette Stiles DC, MPH Executive Director of the Foundation.
“He’s helping build the scaffolding of a principled research future.”
Riley Block Receives the Larry Webster Memorial Scholarship Award
The Larry Webster Memorial Scholarship Award, presented by ChiroFutures, was awarded to Riley Block for her exceptional advocacy in maternal and pediatric chiropractic care. This scholarship honors the legacy of Dr. Larry Webster, whose contributions to chiropractic pediatrics and the development of the Webster Technique remain foundational.
“Riley embodies the spirit of principled care for mothers and children,” said Matthew McCoy DC, MPH, CEO of ChiroFutures.
“Her passion for this work ensures Dr. Webster’s legacy lives on through a new generation.”
A Vision for the Future
The Foundation for Vertebral Subluxation remains committed to nurturing a new generation of chiropractors who are both intellectually equipped and philosophically grounded. By supporting students and faculty who embody the principles of vertebral subluxation-centered care—especially in vital areas like maternal and pediatric health—FVS and ChiroFutures are investing in a future where chiropractic maintains its identity, purpose, and integrity.
“Research without principle is directionless. Principle without research is defenseless,” said Dr. McCoy.
“Our job is to equip this generation with both.”
