Garret Graves, who served in the House of Representatives until last year, was quoted in the July 27 article by Jack Brook, “Louisiana cancels $3 billion coastal restoration project funded by oil” that was distributed worldwide by the Associated Press.  The article, regarding the potential loss of coastal restoration funds from the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Settlement Fund, is an important topic which warrants a serious discussion. 

Statements attributed to you in the article  include “I don’t know what chiropractor or palm reader they got advice from on this but – baffling that someone thought this was a good idea.” (The quote has been used again by former Rep. Graves on social media.

In the letter sent by ICA’s CEO, Dr. Edwin Cordero, the following comments were provided:

“This quote from you has no place in such a serious discussion and implies that chiropractors lack credibility.  Whether provided as a cheap shot at the profession or out of a lack of understanding of the strong evidence-base supporting the safety and benefit of regular chiropractic care, your quote undermines the valuable work of more than 100,000 Doctors of Chiropractic in the United States including the more than 700 in the state of Louisiana. 

Chiropractors (Doctors of Chiropractic):

• Recognized as Essential Health Care Providers by the US Government.
• Physician level providers in Medicare, Medicaid, DOD and VA.
• Licensed in Every US State.
• Chiropractic Care is a covered service in Medicare, Medicaid, US military and Veterans Administration health care. 
• Extensive licensing and educational requirements: 
  • 3-4 Year Graduate Degree requiring minimum of  7 years undergraduate with science pre-requisites.  All US Chiropractic Programs are Accredited by the CCE, which is US Department of Education approved.
  • Licensure requires passage of 4 Boad Exams provided by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) exams and fulfilling any state-specific licensing requirements.
• Safety of chiropractic validated through medical malpractice rates that are among the lowest in health care.
• Research including studies conducted by the US Defense Department show benefits of chiropractic care for improved performance, strength, and recovery.
• Studies show that for patients in pain, chiropractic is first line of care, the rate of opioid prescriptions being filled is reduced by at least 50%.
• Workman’s Compensation Research Institute Study found chiropractic care was less expensive for on-the-job injuries, and that employees returned to work more quickly.”

Dr. Cordero concludes the letter with a request for corrective action be taken. The full letter is available below:

Sherman College of Chiropractic

On June 14, 2025, Sherman College celebrated its 149th commencement ceremony, conferring Doctor of Chiropractic degrees on 49 graduates from the June and September cohorts. 

In a heartfelt address, Sherman President Dr. Jack Bourla inspired graduates to carry forward the college’s 52-year legacy of excellence and community impact. The keynote speaker, Dr. Bobby Findley, a longtime Sherman instructor and case doctor, infused the ceremony with wisdom, humor, and clinical insight, grounded in generations of chiropractic tradition. 

Student addresses were delivered by Nofar Gabay Nugent (Israel) and Riley Block (Virginia). 

High honors included Academic Achievement Awards to Nugent and Alex Annis, Service Distinction to Lauren Haar, and Clinical Excellence Awards to Jessica Haven Wood-Duncan and Block. 

Kyle Lange received the esteemed B.J. Palmer Philosophy Distinction Award, exemplifying the spirit of principled leadership.

Life Chiropractic College West

On June 13, 2025, Life Chiropractic College West hosted its 87th Commencement Ceremony—one that will be remembered not only for celebrating the newest class of chiropractic graduates, but for ushering in a powerful new chapter in the college’s legacy.

The two-day celebration in Hayward, California, began with a Champagne Reception and Awards Banquet on Thursday, followed by Friday’s Commencement, where 81 students received their Doctor of Chiropractic degrees, and one earned a Master of Science in Diagnostic Imaging.

In a historic first for the institution, the ceremony featured a live presidential transition, as outgoing President Dr. Ron Oberstein passed the presidential robe and colors to incoming President Dr. Peter Kevorkian—marking a poignant moment of leadership, legacy, and Evolution.

Keynote speaker Dr. Donny Epstein, renowned in the field for his visionary work, delivered an electrifying address, reminding graduates:

“Each of us stands on the shoulders of someone else—and remember, there will be thousands who stand on yours. May the fruit that comes after you be richer than we could have ever imagined.”

Academic honors were awarded to Spring 2025 Valedictorian, Ryan Guenette, Summer 2025 Valedictorians Brianna Connor and Darcy Hiebert, along with Salutatorians Lauren Eads (Spring) and Jaron Hua (Summer). The event was emceed by Provost Dr. Scott Donaldson, and featured musical performances by the Brass View Quintet and graduate Daniela Reyes.

From the heartfelt farewell by Dr. Ron to the inspiring vision of Dr. Peter, Life West’s 87th Commencement served as a bold reflection of the college’s commitment to chiropractic’s future—and to shaping graduates ready to Give. Do. Love. Serve.

Life University

The June 20th, 2025  graduation ceremony at Life University in Marietta welcomed 104 new doctors of chiropractic, along with 94 students who received their Bachelor’s degree and 24 who received their Master’s degree. President Dr. Brian McAulay and Dr. Jaime Davis, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs, presided over the event. 

Ellis Anthony Davis was honored as the class Valedictorian of the class receiving their Bachelor’s degree, with Doctor of Chiropractic class Valedictorian Miriah Ghislaine Martin. 

Other awards included: Salutatorian – Trenton Zachary Ward, Chiropractic Philosophy Distinction – Michael Christopher Panzarino, Clinic Excellence – Dustin Charles Biggerstaff.

These students were recognized for expressing the Three Life U Values: 

Lasting Purpose: Ellis Anthony Davis, Integrity: Jessica J. Brannan, Vitalism: Hamad Haider Shirazi

At this last graduation, Life University welcomed a fourth member to a family’s plate on the Generations Wall, honoring their father and 3 sons who have graduated from Life University in the last 3 years. They will return next year to welcome their fifth and final brother from the program! There are 70 families currently honored on the wall and all the funds raised from the Generations Wall go to the Generations Legacy Scholarship fund for Life University Students.

Palmer College of Chiropractic – Davenport Campus

The birthplace of chiropractic honored 73 new D.C. graduates at its Class #252 commencement on June 20, 2025. 

The president and faculty saluted the academic excellence and philosophical conviction of this diverse cohort from 28 states and countries. 

Valedictorian honors went to Ryan Timothy Hayter, Tyler Lee Watermann, and Cameron Jay Whitehead, while Colin Connors and Makayla Kaytlynn Kulow earned Salutatorian distinction. 

Eleven graduates were recognized for Academic Excellence, and six earned Summa Cum Laude honors. The Virgil V. Strang Philosophy Award, a hallmark of principled dedication, was awarded to Robin Ostermeier, with Marie Le and Jonathan Hunter Wigington also nominated. 

These graduates now carry forward the legacy of Palmer and the vision of chiropractic’s founders.

Palmer College of Chiropractic – Florida Campus

Palmer Florida’s 77th commencement on June 20 celebrated 44 new Doctors of Chiropractic, representing 15 regions across the globe. 

Dr. Misty Lagasse, a Palmer alumna, delivered the keynote address, igniting a spirit of service and integrity in the graduates. 

Academic accolades included Valedictorian honors for Adam Marogil and Ethan Shim, and Salutatorian for Matthew Gabriel. Eric Daniel Varga received the Virgil V. Strang Philosophy Award, while Miranda Rose Torres earned the Clinical Excellence Award. The James Buerkle Memorial Award was presented to Olivia Anne Cramer-Chavarria, and Alexis Marie Hannah was recognized with the Research Honors Award. 

With 21 graduates earning honors distinctions and 10 achieving Academic Excellence, this class exemplifies the bright future of principled chiropractic.

We also congratulate graduates of other schools with earlier spring commencements. 

Cleveland University Kansas City held its spring commencement on April 24th, 2025. 

As these new doctors take their place in the world, the ICA stands ready to support them with mentorship, leadership opportunities, and a principled global community. We celebrate their achievement and the lifelong service they are prepared to give to humanity through specific, scientific chiropractic care.

We are dedicated to serving chiropractic students during their education journey and throughout their professional careers. 

Learn more about our Student (ICA) program here: https://www.chiropractic.org/ica-membership/ 

Falls Church, VA – The ICA is happy to congratulate Dr. Selina Sigafoose-Jackson, our immediate past president, on receiving the 2025 League of Chiropractic Women (LCW) Legacy Award. This well-deserved honor highlights Dr. Selina’s incredible dedication, leadership, and lasting impact on the chiropractic community.

The LCW Legacy Award is presented to women who have exemplified a life of dedicated service to Chiropractic.

Dr. Selina has been a cornerstone of our profession for over 30 years, running a thriving practice in York, Pennsylvania, with her husband, Dr. Kevin Jackson. She graduated from Life University’s College of Chiropractic in 1989, following in the footsteps of her father, Dr. James Sigafoose, a beloved leader and one of the founders of Life University.

Throughout her career, Dr. Selina has inspired so many through her passion, leadership, and commitment to chiropractic’s core principles. As the first woman to serve as ICA President, she’s paved the way for others and shown that dedication and heart can truly make a difference.

The League of Chiropractic Women is a special organization—created by women, for women—that brings together DCs, spouses, CAs, faculty, and more to learn, share, and grow in a supportive, family-friendly environment. Dr. Selina’s involvement and leadership in the LCW reflect her belief in the power of community and the importance of supporting each other.

Dr. Selina’s legacy of leadership and service has touched countless lives and will continue to shape the future of chiropractic. We’re proud to celebrate her achievements and all that she’s done to uplift our profession.

For more information about the ICA and its leadership, visit www.chiropractic.org. 

Media Contact: 
Beth Clay, Executive Director 
bclay@chiropractic.org 

Falls Church, VA — We’re excited to introduce Dr. Neil Cohen as the ICA’s new Membership Ambassador! In this important role, Dr. Cohen will be working closely with our student ICA programs at affiliated schools, inspiring the next generation of chiropractors to embrace ICA’s mission and values. 

He will also be actively recruiting new members, helping young graduates transition smoothly into full doctor-level membership, and ensuring they remain active and engaged throughout their careers for full ICA benefits. 

Dr. Cohen will be working hand-in-hand with our CEO, Dr. Edwin Cordero, to strengthen and grow our ICA community—just as he did as Executive Vice President of Sherman College of Chiropractic, where together they advanced the college’s standing as a leader in principled chiropractic education.

Dr. Cohen joined Sherman College in 2014 and served there for nearly 10 years, helping guide its growth and impact. He is a 1986 graduate of Life Chiropractic College, where he was deeply inspired by Dr. Sid Williams’ passion for chiropractic’s unique philosophy—a passion that sparked a lifelong commitment to principled chiropractic care. 

For nearly 30 years, Dr. Cohen practiced alongside his wife, Randi, in South Florida, earning a reputation for his genuine care and for helping countless patients experience the transformative power of chiropractic. He’s always believed that, by God’s design, the body has an incredible ability to heal itself, and he’s dedicated his life to sharing that truth.

Dr. Cohen’s leadership, communication skills, and unwavering commitment to chiropractic’s core philosophy make him a perfect fit for this role. We can’t wait to see the positive impact he’ll bring to our ICA community.

For more information about the ICA and its leadership, visit www.chiropractic.org. 

Media Contact: 
Beth Clay, Executive Director 
bclay@chiropractic.org 

“This is a tragic situation, but it’s also a gross misrepresentation of the chiropractic profession,” said Dr. Edwin Cordero, CEO of the ICA. “It’s yet another example of sensational journalism that draws conclusions without evidence, science, or clinical context.”

A Pattern of Blame Without Clinical Facts

Every time a vascular event occurs, and a chiropractor is even remotely involved in the patient’s history, it becomes headline news regardless of timing, medical context, or alternative risk factors. In this case, the patient herself stated that her symptoms developed weeks after the adjustment.

“If a traumatic arterial dissection truly occurred at the moment of care, we’d expect immediate neurological symptoms like severe headache, nausea, or difficulty walking,” Dr. Cordero noted. “Delayed symptom onset matters. That’s clinical evidence being ignored.”

Research Clearly Refutes a Causal Link

The best available research supports what principled chiropractors have long known: there is no causal relationship between cervical chiropractic adjustments and vertebral artery dissection.

A major population-based study by Cassidy et al. (2008), published in Spine, examined all vertebrobasilar strokes in Ontario over nine years and found no increased risk of stroke associated with chiropractic care compared to medical care. Patients experiencing early dissection symptoms like neck pain or headache—were just as likely to see a chiropractor as a medical doctor, showing that the stroke process had likely begun before any visit occurred.

This conclusion is supported by the American Heart Association and multiple systematic reviews, including a 2016 meta-analysis published in Cureus and a 2021 study in Chiropractic & Manual Therapies. Together, these findings make it clear: correlation does not equal causation when it comes to chiropractic care and VAD.

References:

1. Cassidy JD, Boyle E, Côté P, He Y, Hogg-Johnson S, Silver FL, Bondy SJ. Risk of vertebrobasilar stroke and chiropractic care: results of a population-based case-control and case-crossover study. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2008 Feb 15;33(4 Suppl):S176-83. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0b013e3181644600. Erratum in: Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2010 Mar 1;35(5):595. PMID: 18204390.
2. Biller J, Sacco RL, Albuquerque FC, et al. (2014). Cervical Arterial Dissections and Association with Cervical Manipulative Therapy: A Statement for Healthcare Professionals from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. Stroke, 45(10):3155–3174. DOI: 10.1161/STR.0000000000000016
3. Church EW, Sieg EP, Zalatimo OA, et al. (2016). Systematic review and meta-analysis of chiropractic care and cervical artery dissection: no evidence for causation. Cureus, 8(2):e498. DOI: 10.7759/cureus.498
4. Whedon JM, Mackenzie TA, Phillips RB, Lurie JD. (2021). Risk of cervical artery dissection after chiropractic spinal manipulation in Medicare B beneficiaries aged 65 to 99 years with neck pain. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, 29:16. DOI: 10.1186/s12998-021-00367-5

Overlooked Clinical Red Flags

According to People Magazine, Klundt had previously undergone breast explant surgery and suffered from chronic muscular pain, key indicators that should have prompted a comprehensive clinical evaluation. Additionally, the provider performing the adjustment was a substitute chiropractor, not her usual doctor.

“Every chiropractor must take full responsibility for history-taking and red flag screening, regardless of whether the patient has been to the office before,” Dr. Cordero emphasized. “Shared offices don’t mean shared clinical insight.”

Post-COVID Vascular Risks Must Be Considered

While the article avoids broader physiological context, chiropractors must not. The literature now identifies a potential link between post-COVID exposure (including vaccination) and vascular inflammation, clotting disorders, and endothelial damage—all factors that complicate case presentations.

“We’re not saying COVID caused this injury,” Dr. Cordero stated. “We’re saying that failing to consider the full clinical picture including immune system history is negligent.”

Chiropractic Is Safe, Effective, and Trusted by Millions

Chiropractors deliver over 280 million patient visits annually in the U.S.—that’s more than 1 million visits per day with one of the lowest malpractice claim rates in healthcare. Serious adverse events remain exceedingly rare, with studies estimating a risk of 1–2 incidents per million cervical adjustments.

“Every day, chiropractors help millions live healthier lives without drugs or surgery,” said

Dr. Cordero. “And yet when something goes wrong even with multiple unknowns the media zeroes in on chiropractic. Meanwhile, the 250,000+ deaths from medical errors each year barely get a mention.”

What Chiropractors Must Do Now

To protect patients and themselves chiropractors must:

•      Treat every adjustment like it’s the first

•      Re-screen frequently for red flags and systemic symptoms

•      Ask about surgeries, medications, and immune status

•      Document thoroughly, including “normal” findings

•      Refer out when anything seems off

“If your notes don’t reflect your thinking,” said Dr. Cordero, “then legally, it’s as if you didn’t think at all.”

The ICA Will Keep Standing in the Gap

The ICA will continue to defend principled chiropractic care, push back on media misinformation, and ensure our drug-free identity is protected.  We also promote evidence-informed clinical decision making and best practices.

“This isn’t just about one article—it’s about the future of our profession,” said

Dr. Cordero. “And we’re not backing down.”

To learn more about ICA advocacy and how to get involved, visit www.chiropractic.org.

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ICA CEO, Dr Edwin Cordero stated: “I want to be clear—what’s happening in Montana is exactly why Dr. B.J. Palmer founded the ICA and charged us with guarding the Sacred Trust. This fight was a warning shot—and we all know it won’t be the last. But let me assure you, the ICA will always rise to the occasion and stand firm for principled chiropractic, just as we’ve done throughout this entire legislative battle in Montana.”

Background: Chiropractic legislator Greg Oblander first introduced HB 500 and then HB 929 when the Montana Legislative session opened in January for its 90-day session. The process of introducing and seeing it signed into the law by the Governor has many steps; and as we learned in Montana a bill that has been voted down in committee can be resurrected and a bill that is tabled in committee can be ‘blasted’ to the floor.

The ICA was ‘boots on the ground’ in Montana with Board Member, Dr. Hugo Michael Gibson and Assembly Representative Dr. Donald Gibson both attending and testifying at the State Board meeting the House hearing, and the Senate. Additional ICA doctors in Montana also testified.  They were backed up with the ICA home office, most specifically our CEO and Executive Director.  ICA’s CEO, Dr. Edwin Cordero provided testimony via zoom and the ICA submitted extensive written testimony to both the House and Senate. We did significant outreach first in the House and then in the Senate.  While the legislature does not meet again until 2027, ICA will continue our engagement in Montana. 

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The International Chiropractors Association (ICA) is pleased to announce the winners of its 2025 student scholarships. These scholarships were awarded to outstanding members of the Student ICA (SICA) who demonstrated exceptional commitment to chiropractic through written and speech competitions. 

This year’s scholarship recipients represent the bright future of the profession and ICA.  We are honored to support their journey. 

Written Competition Winners 
Students submitted a written statement ahead of the Annual Meeting for judging.

Student Dr. Sylvia Frierson (pictured with past president Dr. Selina Sigafoose-Jackson)	Sherman College of Chiropractic
Student Dr. Payton Rinkol	Cleveland University-Kansas City
Student Dr. Noah Jackson-O’Mary	Life Chiropractic College West (Nebraska)

Each written competition winner was awarded $1,000.

Speech Competition Winners

The speech competition was held live during the ICA’s 99th Annual Convention in Clearwater, Florida, as part of the ICA Philosophy Lunch on Saturday, April 5.

Student Dr. Lauren Haar	Sherman College of Chiropractic
Student Dr. Sylvia Frierson	Sherman College of Chiropractic

Each winner of the speech competition was awarded $1,250.

These scholarships are made possible through the Coralee Van Egmond Student Scholarship Fund, which honors the legacy of leadership and service to the chiropractic profession of Dr. Coralee Van Egmond, who served for many years as Program Director at the ICA.  Donations to the Scholarship fund are always welcomed.    

The ICA believes in investing in the next generation of chiropractors and remains committed to supporting students who are passionate about health, health freedom, and the future of principled chiropractic. We congratulate these exceptional students and look forward to the impact they will make in the years ahead as ICA members. 

The International Chiropractors Association (ICA) proudly announces the newest inductees into the distinguished Fellows of the ICA (FICA). This prestigious recognition is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated their commitment to the profession and to the ICA through outstanding service and dedication. 

Fellowship in the ICA is a mark of honor and merit, with candidacy determined by the Fellows at-large. It reflects a commitment to professional excellence, leadership, and the advancement of the profession. 

The 2025 FICA inductees were nominated during the Fellows Lunch on Friday, April 4, held as part of the ICA’s 99th Annual Convention in Clearwater, Florida. Attending inductees were formally pinned during the Awards Banquet that evening.

The ICA congratulates the following new Fellows:

• Rachae Bell, DC, DCCJP
• James Chestnut, DC, CCWCP
• Bradley Glowaki, DC
• Andrew Jeter, DC, PA
• George Lubertazzo, DC
• Shantell Missick, DC, CLT, CKTP
• Benjamin Oien, DC
• Gary Stewart, DC
• Angel Tribuno, DC
• Jeffrey Wack, DC

These doctors exemplify the values and mission of the ICA through their leadership, service, and dedication to chiropractic. We are proud to welcome them into this distinguished community of Fellows. 

Clearwater, FL – April 15, 2025—The International Chiropractors Association (ICA) made a powerful impact this past weekend at the Dynamic Essentials Conference in Clearwater, Florida.

ICA’s newly appointed CEO, Edwin Cordero, DC, FICA, took the stage as the Friday Night Keynote Speaker, delivering a passionate message rooted in principled chiropractic, legacy, and vision for the future. The response was overwhelming.

22 doctors and students signed up to become ICA members, committing to stand for the sacred principles of chiropractic and join a global movement.

“This isn’t just a new season—it’s a new era for ICA,” said Dr. Cordero. “We are more than an organization; we are a movement to protect the Sacred Trust and ensure chiropractic remains a distinct, powerful, and principled profession worldwide.”

ICA Mission
To protect and promote chiropractic throughout the world as a distinct healthcare profession predicated upon its unique philosophy, science, and art of subluxation detection and correction.

ICA Vision
To empower humanity to optimal life expression, health, and human potential through specific and scientific chiropractic care.

Founded by Dr. B.J. Palmer in 1926, the ICA continues to lead the profession forward with integrity, purpose, and global advocacy. For more information or to join the ICA, visit www.chiropractic.org.