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By: Amy Charles | September 29, 2026
Chris Yonts, D.O., was named the 2026 John A. Strosnider, D.O., Memorial Lecturer during the 17th annual University of Pikeville – Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) Founders Dinner on September 25. The honor recognizes Yonts’ contributions to the osteopathic field and his commitment to developing the next generation of physicians.
Established in honor of John A. Strosnider, D.O., founding dean of KYCOM, the memorial lectureship is presented annually to honor physicians and educators who exemplify the dedication to medical education and service that characterized Strosnider’s career. Previous recipients include G. Chad Perry III, Burlin Coleman, Bennie Ray Bailey, Paul E. Patton, William H. Owens, Terry Dotson, Harold H. “Hal” Smith, Walter E. May, William Betz, Edward G. Stiles, Steve R. Harris, Julia H. Smith, Jody Brown, Rakesh Sachdeva, Jody Johnson and Seema Sachdeva.
Yonts is the associate dean of clinical medicine for the Harrogate campus at Lincoln Memorial University–DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he oversees the clinical curriculum for first- and second-year medical students. He also serves as associate professor of family medicine and director of clinical distance learning.
A 2006 graduate of Pikeville College School of Osteopathic Medicine, now KYCOM, Yonts completed his internship and family medicine residency at the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine in Knoxville, Tennessee. He is board-certified by both the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians and the American Board of Family Medicine.
With more than 17 years of experience in medical education, Yonts has dedicated his career to developing competent, compassionate and accountable physicians through innovative clinical education, mentorship and the integration of osteopathic principles.
During his remarks, Yonts reflected on his journey to becoming a physical and how Dr. Strosnider impacted his life.
“I always wanted to be a teacher, and I think he saw some of himself in me,” said Yonts. “Having been in education for this long, I understand him more. He influenced my life in so many ways and the lives of many others. His legacy lies in us.”