(KAIR)--Calling it "a huge step forward" for its medical school project, Atchison-based Benedictine College announces the hiring of what a release calls "two remarkable professionals as Dean and Associate Dean who will begin their duties this summer."

Named as the founding Dean of the proposed Benedictine College School of Osteopathic Medicine is Marla DePolo Golden, DO, MS, FACEP, who previously served as Dean of the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine program at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine South Georgia.

Joining Golden on the staff of the proposed new medical school is Deacon Kevin Tulipana, DO, MS, appointed as
Associate Dean. Tulipana, an ordained deacon with the Catholic Church, comes to Atchison and the college from City of Hope Phoenix, a National Cancer Institute designated cancer center and a Top 10 cancer center in the U.S., where he served as President.

Golden, in the release from the college, calls the proposed school of Osteopathic medicine "a wonderful opportunity to rehumanize the practice of medicine,” saying that "osteopathic medicine treats the whole person and is a great fit with the Catholic, Christ-centered approach at Benedictine College."

The Benedictine College Board of Directors, in June of last year, voted to continue efforts to explore the proposed medical school, with the college, at that time, dedicating an initial $4 million investment to help make it a reality.

The interest in supporting a medical school comes from the college- strategic plan, “Transform Culture in America,” which states: “STEM education is a particular emphasis of Benedictine College” and calls for the school “to advance the mission through science and health care.”

The college has partnered with organizations with national success records in accreditation and fundraising to ensure success for the project.