Digital publication | Page 20

A Tribute to one of the Founders of the University of New England

College of Osteopathic Medicine

Dr. Joseph A Ackil, DO passed away peacefully

on October 18, 2024 at home surrounded by

his family.

Dr. Ackil was born in Brockton, MA to

Lebanese immigrant parents. After graduating from

Brockton High School, he attended the

Massachussetts College of Pharmacy and then was

drafted into the the United States Army.

Upon leaving the Army, he decided his true calling

in life was to be a physician. He graduated from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1967. After his internship, he opened his office in Roslindale where he practiced serving the neighborhoods of Boston for over 40 years.

In the mid-70s, Dr. Ackil and a group of like-minded peers from across New England met to discuss an Osteopathic Medical School in New England. From that meeting, and a napkin covered in notes, the New England College of Osteopathic Medicine was founded in 1978 on a shared campus with St. Francis College located in Biddeford Maine. Since it's founding, it has become endeared as UNE COM. Dr. Ackil served as the first Director of Admissions.

Dr. Ackil's joy of teaching medical students and residents was the spark that led him to that meeting and that spark ensured the growth that UNE COM continues to celebrate to this day. Dr. Ackil will be greatly missed by all.