Sherman Student Frances Hawkins Joins Foundation for Vertebral Subluxation's Research Fellowship Team
Originally published: 2025-05-15
Welcome to the Fellowship: Frances Hawkins Joins the FVS Research Team
The Foundation for Vertebral Subluxation (FVS) proudly welcomes Frances Hawkins of Sherman College of Chiropractic as the newest recipient of its prestigious Research Fellowship. Hawkins joins a distinguished group of student-scholars advancing the Foundation’s ambitious research agenda, which focuses on the analysis and correction of vertebral subluxation as a critical element of public health.
She joins a vibrant team of Fellows including Lauren Haar, Aquil Holden, Henry Duval, Alexandra Shults, and Javier Diaz. Recent graduates Caroline Estabrook and Nicholas Foster exemplify the enduring impact of the Fellowship—because once a Fellow, always a Fellow. Many, like Estabrook and Foster, continue to collaborate on research and public health initiatives long after graduation.
“The Foundation is thrilled to welcome Frances into our research family,” said Matthew McCoy DC, MPH, Vice President of the Foundation. “Her drive, philosophical clarity, and commitment to the chiropractic profession’s future align perfectly with our mission to build a scholarly infrastructure around vertebral subluxation.”
A Scholar with Passion and Purpose
Frances Hawkins brings an exceptional blend of leadership, vision, and dedication to the Fellowship. With a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a deeply rooted passion for principled chiropractic, Hawkins is already a leader among her peers. She has earned spots on Sherman’s President’s List and Dean’s List and serves as a Student Ambassador, SIFCO Club Treasurer, and active member of the Dynamic Essentials (DE) Club. Her academic focus and extracurricular leadership reflect a deep commitment to promoting subluxation-centered chiropractic education.
In her application, Hawkins expressed a clear philosophical alignment with the Foundation’s objectives:
“I am excited to contribute to evidence-based and evidence-informed research proving the legitimacy of the vertebral subluxation. My innate ability to question everything and fervent desire to find answers makes me confident I can meaningfully contribute.”
Fueling the Future Through Research and Scholarship
The FVS Research Fellowship is part of the Foundation’s Advancing Futures Program, which has awarded more than 25 scholarships to student-researchers dedicated to vertebral subluxation science. Sherman College students have consistently led the way, receiving the most awards among all institutions, and their commitment dovetails seamlessly with the college’s newly launched strategic plan focused on advancing scholarship and scientific inquiry into vertebral subluxation.
With more than 100 projects either completed or underway, the FVS continues to be the leading voice in subluxation-centered research and policy development. The Foundation’s Research Agenda, authored by McCoy and FVS President Christopher Kent DC, JD, MBA, aims to validate the chiropractic profession by investigating key areas including operational models, measurement methods, epidemiology, clinical strategies, and health outcomes related to vertebral subluxation.
“Our goal is not just academic,” explained Kent. “It’s transformational. We want to position chiropractic as a vitalistic, scientific, evidence-informed clinical practice—one that can shape public health policy and elevate our profession’s role in health care.”
Supporting Sherman’s Vision
Frances’ selection also reinforces the Foundation’s support of Sherman College’s evolving strategic direction, which emphasizes rigorous research and scholarship rooted in the detection and correction of vertebral subluxation. The synergy between the Foundation and Sherman ensures that students like Frances receive both the philosophical foundation and the research skills needed to become tomorrow’s leaders in chiropractic science and education.
A Fellowship Without End
While the Fellowship supports students in the early stages of their academic and clinical journey, it is far more than a temporary position. Many FVS Fellows continue to serve as collaborators, authors, and thought leaders long after graduation, contributing to peer-reviewed literature, participating in national conferences, and influencing policy.
“Our Fellows become lifelong members of a growing community of scholars committed to protecting and advancing the profession,” said McCoy. “Frances is joining a movement—not just a program.”
Conclusion
The Foundation for Vertebral Subluxation congratulates Frances Hawkins and looks forward to her contributions as a rising force in chiropractic research. Her selection continues the tradition of scholarly excellence that defines the FVS Fellowship Program—and ensures that the profession’s core commitment to vertebral subluxation remains both scientifically grounded and future-focused.
