Christopher J. Loyke, DO, FACOFP, did not always envision a career in medicine. In fact, before medical school, he had his sights set on an entirely different path beneath the surface of the water. 

An avid scuba diver, Dr. Loyke taught scuba diving in the 1970s, explored commercial diving and considered becoming a marine biologist. It was his father, an internal medicine physician, who encouraged him to consider medicine instead. 

That conversation ultimately set him on a path that would span more than three decades as a physician, educator, and leader. Now, as Dean of the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM), Dr. Loyke brings those experiences to Fort Smith with two principles that have remained constant throughout his career. 

“Aside from my family, my two biggest passions in life are teaching and service,” Dr. Loyke said. “That is easily what I am most interested in and most driven toward.” 

Finding His Place in Medicine 

Dr. Loyke’s introduction to osteopathic medicine was somewhat unexpected. After initially applying to an allopathic medical school, a friend suggested he consider osteopathic medicine. At the time, Dr. Loyke admits he knew very little about the profession. He eventually attended Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine and quickly found that its approach to medicine resonated with him. 

For Dr. Loyke, however, the most important quality in a future physician is not whether they entered medical school already committed to a particular philosophy of medicine. It is whether they have a genuine desire to care for others. 

“I want people who want to serve other people,” Dr. Loyke said. “I want people who want to care for patients.” 

He believes the best way to advance the osteopathic profession is not simply to talk about what makes it distinct, but to demonstrate its value through the way physicians serve their patients and communities. 

“Do your work. Build the bridges that you need to build, and do your work honestly, with love,” Dr. Loyke said. “You will elevate the profession, and it will always speak for itself.” 

After completing his medical training, he spent 25 years practicing family medicine in the Cleveland, Ohio area. Remaining in the same community for much of his clinical career allowed him to experience what he believes is one of the greatest privileges of family medicine: becoming part of the lives of the people he served. 

“It’s family practice, not because you take care of families,” Dr. Loyke said. “It’s family practice because if you do it right and you stay put, you become part of these families.” 

Over the years, that meant attending many of his patient’s family events including weddings, holidays, first communions, and funerals. 

A Calling to Teach and Serve 

Education was also never far from Dr. Loyke’s clinical work. He enjoyed teaching medical students during their rotations and helping young physicians find direction as they began their own careers. 

That desire to serve eventually extended beyond the walls of his practice. At age 50, Dr. Loyke joined the U.S. Army Reserve Medical Corps and later deployed to Afghanistan, an experience he describes as one of the many opportunities in his career where he received far more than he felt he gave. 

His career later expanded into hospital leadership, graduate medical education, and eventually full-time academic medicine. In 2018, he joined Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine (LMU-DCOM), where he initially served in clinical leadership before later becoming Dean. 

After years of helping lead a rapidly growing medical school, Dr. Loyke began considering what he wanted from the next chapter of his career. 

“I just wanted to go someplace where I can get to know people,” Dr. Loyke said. “I wanted it to be rural. Rural resonates with me, rural underserved.” 

When he visited ARCOM, the decision ultimately came down to something much simpler. 

“ARCOM just felt right,” he said. 

Leading Through Trust 

As Dr. Loyke begins his tenure as Dean of ARCOM, he describes his leadership style as collaborative and grounded in trust. 

“I like a collaborative approach,” he said. “I’m not a micromanager by any means. I like to let my leaders lead.” 

He believes senior leadership relies heavily on honor, integrity and sound judgment, as well as having confidence in the people around you. One of the accomplishments he is most proud of from his previous institution was building a strong leadership team capable of continuing the work long after his departure. 

At ARCOM, he says that same philosophy will guide his approach as he works alongside faculty, staff, and students to build upon the college’s foundation and prepare physicians for communities where their skills are needed most. 

For Dr. Loyke, serving underserved communities does not mean encouraging every student to pursue primary care. He points out that many communities also lack access to specialists, including cardiologists, endocrinologists, rheumatologists, and pulmonologists.  

Whether an ARCOM graduate chooses family medicine or a specialized field, he hopes students will consider where their expertise could have the greatest impact. 

“Go where you’re needed,” Dr. Loyke said. “Don’t elbow your way in where there’s 50 cardiologists, and you want to be the 51st. Go where you’re needed.” 

Even if just a few are inspired to take their skills to communities where access to care is limited, Dr. Loyke believes the impact can be significant. 

“It only takes one or two to make a difference,” he said. 

Beyond the Dean’s Office 

Outside of medicine and education, family remains at the center of Dr. Loyke’s life. He and his wife, Julie, have four children and seven grandchildren. To those grandchildren, Dean Loyke has another title: “Pop Pop,” while Julie is known as “Gigi.” 

He also enjoys running and still carries an appreciation for the scuba diving that nearly became his career. 

Although his professional path took him far from the marine biology career he once imagined, it ultimately brought together the things he values most: caring for others, teaching future physicians, and finding meaningful ways to serve. 

Now at ARCOM, Dr. Loyke hopes to continue that work by helping prepare physicians who not only have the knowledge and skills to practice medicine, but who recognize where those skills can make the greatest difference. 

Fast Facts with Dr. Loyke 

Favorite scuba dive spot: The Mizpah, West Palm Beach
Favorite movie: A New Leaf with Walter Matthau
Favorite meal: Steak and potatoes
Favorite food: Grilled cheese
Bucket list destination: Petra, Jordan
Currently reading: Revenge of the Tipping Point, Blink, The Call of Cthulhu, and The Outsider 

FORT SMITH, AR. — The Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) Board of Trustees has appointed Jo Alice Blondin, PhD as President, effective July 13, 2026.

Dr. Blondin brings 33 years of progressive leadership experience in higher education and a distinguished record of service to students, institutions, and accrediting organizations. Most recently, she served as President of Clark State College in Springfield, Ohio. Her career also includes service as Chair and Trustee of the Higher Learning Commission Board of Trustees and as Chancellor of Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus.

Throughout her career, Dr. Blondin has been recognized for her commitment to student success, institutional excellence, and strategic growth. Her leadership experience spans community colleges, universities, and national higher education organizations, where she has helped guide institutions through periods of innovation, expansion, and transformation.

As President, Dr. Blondin will provide leadership and guidance as ACHE continues its mission of educating future healthcare professionals and advancing excellence in health sciences education.

“Dr. Blondin is a proven leader whose career has been defined by a commitment to student success, academic excellence, and institutional growth,” said Mike Barr, Chair of the ACHE Board of Trustees. “The Board is confident that her experience, vision, and collaborative leadership style will serve ACHE well during this transition. We are pleased to welcome her to the institution and look forward to working with her as we continue building on ACHE’s strong foundation.”

Dr. Blondin said she is honored to join the institution and support its mission. “I am excited to join Arkansas Colleges of Health Education and to work alongside its dedicated faculty, staff, students, and community partners,” said Dr. Blondin. “ACHE has established an outstanding reputation for educating healthcare professionals and serving the region through innovation and excellence. I look forward to supporting the institution’s continued growth and helping advance its mission of improving health and healthcare outcomes through education.”

She added, “Returning to Arkansas is especially meaningful to me. Earlier in my career, I had the opportunity to live and work in this area, and it became a place that I truly cherished both personally and professionally. The opportunities I found here contributed significantly to my growth as a higher education leader. I am excited to return and contribute to the continued success of ACHE and its mission of educating the next generation of healthcare professionals.”

Fort Smith, AR — The Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) celebrated a major milestone on May 23 as approximately 233 graduates crossed the stage during the institution’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony.

The Class of 2026 included graduates from the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), and Master of Science in Biomedicine (MSB) programs. This year’s ceremony was particularly significant as ACHE celebrated the inaugural graduating class of its Master of Public Health (MPH) program, marking another step forward in the institution’s continued growth and commitment to improving health outcomes in Arkansas and beyond.

The Class of 2026 includes approximately 136 Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine graduates, 35 Doctor of Physical Therapy graduates, 16 Doctor of Occupational Therapy graduates, 34 Master of Science in Biomedicine graduates, and 12 Master of Public Health graduates.

For these graduates, commencement represents more than the completion of a degree. It marks the beginning of careers dedicated to improving lives and strengthening communities. Many members of the Class of 2026 will go on to serve patients and populations across Arkansas and the surrounding region, helping expand access to healthcare, improve patient outcomes, and address critical workforce needs in rural and underserved areas.

Founded with a mission to improve healthcare in the River Valley and beyond, ACHE continues to educate the next generation of healthcare leaders through programs that emphasize excellence, compassion, and patient-centered care. The achievements of the Class of 2026 reflect that mission and the institution’s ongoing investment in building a stronger healthcare workforce for the communities it serves.

Following the ceremony, graduates, family members, faculty, and staff gathered on the front lawn of the ARCOM building for a celebratory picnic, recognizing the hard work, perseverance, and accomplishments that brought the Class of 2026 to this important milestone.

Fort Smith, Arkansas — The Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM) is pleased to announce the appointment of Christopher Loyke, DO, FACOFP, as its next Dean, effective July 1, 2026.

Dr. Loyke brings a wealth of experience in medical education and leadership, most recently serving as Dean and Chief Academic Officer at the DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, student success, and the advancement of osteopathic medical education.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Loyke to ARCOM,” said Teressa Brown, PT, DPT, PhD, Provost of the Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE). “His extensive leadership experience and deep understanding of osteopathic medical education make him an outstanding choice to lead ARCOM into its next chapter. We are confident that under his guidance, the college will continue to grow in excellence and impact.”

As Dean, Dr. Loyke will oversee ARCOM’s academic program, faculty development, and strategic initiatives that support ARCOM’s mission to educate and train compassionate, skilled physicians who serve communities in need.

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Loyke to the ARCOM and ACHE community.

An Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM) student has earned national recognition through a newly appointed leadership role.

Ammar Jihad (OMS III) has been elected first vice chair of the Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents (COSGP) national board, becoming the first ARCOM student to serve at the national level.

The COSGP represents osteopathic medical students across the country and works to support leadership development, advocacy and collaboration among student governments at colleges of osteopathic medicine.

“Students everywhere deserve to have their voices heard. I hope to be a positive light for osteopathic students nationwide and to support them in their leadership journeys,” Student Doctor Jihad said.

In his role as vice chair, Jihad will help guide national initiatives, support student leaders, and contribute to advancing the voice of osteopathic medical students nationwide. His appointment reflects both his leadership and ARCOM’s continued commitment to developing physicians who serve beyond the classroom.

To read more about COSGP, click here. 

Fort Smith, Arkansas, April 13, 2026 – The Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) today announced that Kyle D. Parker, JD, will transition to the role of President Emeritus, effective June 30, 2026. The title of President Emeritus is reserved for distinguished leaders whose service has left a lasting legacy, allowing them to continue serving as ambassadors for the institution. The ACHE Board of Trustees bestowed this honor in recognition of Parker’s leadership and enduring impact on ACHE.

Parker’s vision and leadership have been foundational to the creation and growth of ACHE. As the institution’s first hire in April 2014, he played a pivotal role in shaping its direction from the very beginning. From those early efforts, Parker led the formation of ACHE, establishing a bold and innovative model designed to address critical healthcare workforce needs.

Under his leadership, ACHE has grown from its original program, the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM), into a comprehensive academic institution with eight thriving academic programs. His strategic vision extended beyond academics, shaping a dynamic, student-centered campus that includes modern student housing, dining options, retail spaces, and a grocery store, with continued growth planned. The campus also features the Celebration Garden and Wellness Park, a 12-acre space with walking trails, a playground, and water features. Parker was also instrumental in the purchase and renovations of the Research Institute Health & Wellness Center, a 317,000-square-foot facility dedicated to promoting health and wellness to the community. The facility is the home to a state-of-the-art biomedical research lab.

Parker also championed strong community and clinical partnerships, including key collaborations with Mercy Hospital and Mercy Clinic, ensuring students receive high-quality, hands-on training while strengthening healthcare delivery across the region.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we extend our deepest gratitude to Dr. Parker for his extraordinary leadership and unwavering dedication to ACHE,” said Mike Barr, Chair of the ACHE Board of Trustees. “His vision transformed an idea into a thriving institution, and his impact will be felt for generations to come. As we honor the legacy that brought the organization to this point, we also affirm our responsibility as a Board to build upon the strong foundation established by Dr. Parker and sustain our mission to educate compassionate healthcare professionals. The Board looks forward to a period of discernment in finding Dr. Parker’s successor. The institution is blessed with a strong leadership team in place to guide us through this significant transition.”

“It has been the honor of a lifetime to help build ACHE and work alongside so many dedicated individuals who share a passion for improving healthcare through education,” said Parker. “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together and look forward to seeing the institution continue to grow and thrive.”

As he transitions to President Emeritus, Parker looks forward to spending more time with his family, especially his granddaughter, and pursuing his interests in travel and photography.

A celebration honoring Parker’s contributions will be announced at a later date.

The scholarship will be awarded to an incoming student enrolling at the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM) in Fall 2026. The scholarship is need-based and is intended for a student from the ACHE service area, which includes Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Missouri, Louisiana, Mississippi, Kansas, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Eligibility includes students who were born in, attended school, or earned an undergraduate degree in one of these states.

The $25,000 per year scholarship will be applied to the recipient’s tuition each academic year, provided the student remains in good standing with ARCOM. If a recipient is no longer in good standing, the scholarship may be reassigned to another eligible student in a subsequent term.

“The Adopt A Scholar program creates meaningful connections between our students and the organizations that believe in their future,” said ACHE President and CEO Kyle D. Parker, JD. “We are grateful to Arvest Foundation for investing in the next generation of physicians and supporting our mission to improve access to quality healthcare across the region.”

“As a community-focused bank, Arvest is committed to improving the quality of life in the communities we serve, and supporting the next generation of healthcare leaders is a key part of that mission,” said Mike Jacimore, president of Arvest Bank – Fort Smith Region. “On behalf of the Arvest Foundation, we’re proud to present these grants to ACHE to help ease the financial burden for these talented individuals as they complete their training.”

The Adopt A Scholar program is designed to provide financial assistance and personal encouragement to future physicians. Through this initiative, community partners like Arvest play a direct role in supporting students as they pursue medical education and prepare to serve in areas where healthcare access is limited.

“We are excited to expand the impact of the Adopt A Scholar program through partnerships like this,” said Jarred Rego, Director of Advancement at ACHE. “This scholarship eases the financial burden of the student receiving it and strengthens our shared commitment to improving healthcare in the communities we serve.”

Among the graduating class, 67% secured residencies in primary care specialties, underscoring ARCOM’s dedication to meeting the growing healthcare needs of communities across the region. ARCOM students also matched at respected residency programs across the country, including Brown University, continuing the college’s tradition of preparing graduates for success in highly competitive training programs.

ARCOM Students from the Class of 2026 matched into a wide range of specialties, reflecting the comprehensive medical education and clinical training provided in Fort Smith. Notable matches included Anesthesiology, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Emergency Medicine, OB/GYN, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Neurology, Pathology, Radiology, Neuro-Musculoskeletal Medicine, and General Surgery.

“Match Day is a meaningful milestone that reflects the commitment and perseverance our students have shown throughout medical school,” said Teressa Brown, DPT, PhD, Senior Vice President, Chief Academic Officer and Provost of Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE). “Their success in securing residency positions across the country speaks to the strength of ARCOM’s academic preparation and board exam performance, as well as the dedication of our faculty and staff who support them every step of the way. We are incredibly proud of the impact these future physicians will make in the communities they serve.”

Through its mission-driven approach to medical education, ARCOM continues to prepare compassionate physicians who are ready to serve and strengthen communities across Arkansas and throughout the region.

Visitors will have the opportunity to tour the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM) 7000 Chad Colley Blvd., the College of Health Sciences (CoHS) 7006 Chad Colley Blvd., and the ACHE Research Institute Health & Wellness Center (RIHWC) 1000 Fianna Way. Each space reflects ACHE’s commitment to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals while also serving the community through education, outreach, and wellness initiatives. 

Guests will experience a variety of interactive demonstrations and activities across campus. Visitors can explore simulation labs where faculty and students demonstrate adult and pediatric medical scenarios using high-fidelity manikins, observe osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) demonstrations, and walk through the anatomy lab to learn about the vital role of donor programs in medical education. Hands-on science activities will also be available, including microscope demonstrations and interactive exercises that explore how the body works. 

Additional stations will highlight student learning and community engagement, including a public health student panel discussing community projects and interactive displays focused on wellness and resilience. Guests visiting the College of Health Sciences may also participate in functional movement, balance, and fall-risk screenings led by physical therapy faculty and students. Occupational Therapy faculty and students will showcase their learning labs and offer hands-on experiences that give visitors a glimpse into how future occupational therapists are trained at ACHE. 

The ACHE Research Institute Health & Wellness Center will also feature tours and classroom activities, as well as the Altman Gallery Exhibition: A Celebration of Choctaw Art and Culture, giving visitors the chance to experience the intersection of research, wellness, and the arts. 

“At ACHE, our vision has always been rooted in service to the community,” said Kyle Parker, JD, President & CEO of ACHE. “Everything we do, from our programs and partnerships to our facilities, is designed with people in mind. We’re proud to be a place where education and community come together to build a healthier future for the region.” 

That commitment is reflected not only in the classroom, but also in the many ways ACHE connects with the community throughout the year. Faculty and students participate in free clinics, outreach events, and programs designed to expand access to care and promote overall well-being across the region. 

ACHE’s impact also extends beyond healthcare services. Each year, the campus hosts camps and day programs that introduce local students to hands-on healthcare simulations, as well as culinary, ceramics, and STEAM experiences. These programs encourage curiosity, build confidence, and inspire future educational and career pathways. 

The upcoming Community Open House offers a unique opportunity for everyone to see these efforts up close while experiencing the campus firsthand. Whether you’re familiar with ACHE or visiting for the first time, the Community Open House provides a welcoming chance to explore the campus, learn more about its programs, and see how ACHE continues to connect education, healthcare, and community in meaningful ways.  

For updates on the event, click here. 

The CPN Seal of Prevention, awarded by Vector Solutions, honors higher education institutions that demonstrate excellence in prevention education through comprehensive, evidence-based programs addressing key wellness and safety issues such as sexual assault, alcohol misuse, mental health, and discrimination. 

ACHE is one of only two institutions in Arkansas, alongside Arkansas Tech University, to receive this year’s recognition, underscoring ACHE’s dedication to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all students, faculty, and staff. 

“Our top priority is ensuring a campus environment where every student feels safe, respected, and supported,” said Don Cobb, Chief of Police at ACHE. “Receiving this recognition reflects our team’s daily commitment to proactive education and prevention efforts that help our community thrive.” 

The Seal of Prevention, created and administered by Vector Solutions, is awarded to colleges and universities nationwide that demonstrate measurable impact in student well-being and campus safety through strategic prevention initiatives.  

“The CPN Seal of Prevention recognizes schools that are not only leading the way in student wellness and success, but also demonstrating sustained, measurable impact year after year,” said Rob Buelow, General Manager of Education at Vector Solutions. 

For a look at the 2025 Honorees, click here.