MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — Avera Queen of Peace is pleased to welcome two medical students from Des Moines University (DMU) Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program. During the 2026-27 academic year, the medical students will begin their third-year clinical rotations at Avera Queen of Peace regional facilities.

DMU medical students Emilee Foix and Alisa Pairmore will start on August 3. They will transition from classroom learning to full-time patient care, working alongside experienced medical teams. The intent is to provide a broad exposure to patient populations, clinical settings and medical specialties.

Medical students are required to follow a full curriculum including a rotation with a DO preceptor, two or more rotations in an inpatient setting, one rotation with a resident physician and 40 weeks of clinical rotation in primary care and subspecialties.

“Training future physicians is an important responsibility for a health care organization. We’ll be able to provide a well-rounded medical experience in every facet of health care,” said Dr. Darren Manthey, Chief Medical Officer at Avera Queen of Peace. “As a teaching facility, our physicians and providers share the latest in medical research and best practices in caring for patients.”

As Avera Queen of Peace looks for medical students with an interest in rural health care, the students will gain experience across our region, which will include sights such as Platte and Gregory.

“Hosting medical students is an investment in the future of health care. Exposure to rural practice helps students understand the impact they can have on underserved communities,” said Dr. Hilary Rockwell, Regional President and CEO of Avera Queen of Peace region. “As students often practice where they train, partnering with medical schools like DMU helps future physicians see the value in rural health, where they can make a lasting difference in the lives of patients and families.”