OAKLAND, Calif. (April 3, 2025) — Samuel Merritt University (SMU), a nationally recognized private health sciences university based in Oakland, California, honored David G. Armstrong, DPM ’93, PhD, MD, MSc, with its 2025 Health Impact Award for Distinguished Alumnus. The award was presented during a gala ceremony on April 3, 2025, celebrating transformative leaders in healthcare whose work exemplifies the University’s mission of improving health outcomes and advancing equity.
Dr. Armstrong, Distinguished Professor of Surgery and Neurological Surgery at the University of Southern California, was recognized for his pioneering contributions to limb preservation and interdisciplinary innovation in diabetic foot care. With over 720 peer-reviewed publications, multiple honorary degrees, and ongoing global initiatives aimed at ending preventable amputation within a generation, Armstrong was honored alongside other leaders making significant advances in patient-centered care.
The Health Impact Awards are SMU’s highest honors, celebrating outstanding achievements by alumni, faculty, staff, students, and healthcare partners who have made enduring contributions to their fields and communities.
Photo Captions:
Samuel Merritt University (SMU), a private health sciences university based in Oakland, California, honors David Armstrong, DPM ’93, PhD, MD, MSc, with a Health Impact Award as Distinguished Alumnus at the award gala on April 3, 2025.
Pictured: Alvin McLean, Jr., PhD, Chair, SMU Board of Regents; Dr. David Armstrong; and SMU President Ching-Hua Wang, MD, PhD.
Photo Caption (Group Photo):
On April 3, 2025, Samuel Merritt University (SMU), a private health sciences university based in Oakland, California, honored two distinguished podiatric physicians with Health Impact Awards, the University’s most prestigious recognition of outstanding and significant accomplishments.
Pictured, seated from left: David Armstrong, DPM ’93, PhD, MD, MSc; and Jon Hultman, DPM ’70, MBA; along with SMU President Ching-Hua Wang (standing, third from left), past presidents of the California Podiatric Medical Association, and special guests, including Dr. Armstrong’s wife, Tania Armstrong (left).
Armstrong’s acceptance speech:
For more information, visit: https://www.samuelmerritt.edu/samuel-merritt-university-health-impact-awards
The cover of the California Podiatric Physician (California Podiatric Medical Association) featuring the event
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