A Legacy of Leadership and Lasting Purpose
Life Chiropractic College West is proud to announce that Dr. Ron Oberstein, President of Life West, has been honored as the ICA Chiropractor of the Year—the highest recognition awarded annually by the International Chiropractors Association (ICA). The award was presented on April 4, 2025, during the ICA’s 99th Annual Convention in Clearwater, Florida.
This prestigious honor celebrates Dr. Oberstein’s more than four decades of leadership, clinical excellence, global service, and unwavering commitment to advancing chiropractic worldwide.
Since taking the helm as Life West President in 2016, Dr. Oberstein has led a transformational era of growth and innovation for the college. His leadership helped launch Life West Nebraska, establish the Nexus Brain Center, expand the college’s renowned Global Service Trips, and introduce the Clinically Inspired Learning Curriculum and Preceptor Program—setting a new standard for chiropractic education rooted in service, excellence, and technological innovation.
Prior to his presidency, Dr. Oberstein built a thriving practice in both Boston and San Diego and spent 25 years serving on Life West’s Board of Regents, including two years as Chairman. A Lifetime ICA Member and Fellow of the ICA (FICA), he has held several leadership roles within the ICA, including Membership Chair, Board Member, and Vice President. His service extended globally as Chair of the Association of Chiropractic Colleges, further shaping the future of chiropractic education around the world.
Alongside his wife, Dr. Mary Oberstein, he co-founded Hands for Life, a nonprofit dedicated to providing chiropractic care to underserved families across the U.S. and Mexico. Their commitment to service continues through their daughters—Drs. Lauren, Morgan, and Sydney—who proudly carry on the family’s chiropractic legacy.
Reflecting on the honor, Dr. Oberstein shared:
“It’s an incredible honor to be named ICA Chiropractor of the Year. This recognition isn’t just about my journey—it’s about the power of chiropractic to change lives, communities, and the world. My mission has always been clear: to lead with purpose, to serve with heart, and to elevate this profession to its highest potential. None of this would have been possible without the love and support of my wife, Dr. Mary, and my three daughters. This is just the beginning.”
Incoming Life West President, Dr. Peter Kevorkian, praised Dr. Oberstein’s lasting impact:
“Dr. Ron Oberstein’s career is a true reflection of what leadership, heart, and vision can achieve. His commitment to the growth of chiropractic education and global service has transformed countless lives. We are all beneficiaries of his passion, and this recognition by the ICA is a testament to his incredible legacy.”
As Dr. Oberstein prepares to retire from his role at Life West in June 2025, this recognition stands as a lasting testament to a career—and a life—defined by vision, service, and dedication to the chiropractic profession.
Congratulations, Dr. Ron Oberstein, and thank you for your extraordinary leadership and legacy.
Why It Matters for Life West
This recognition is more than a personal milestone—it’s a reflection of the standard of excellence Life West brings to chiropractic education every day. Dr. Oberstein’s leadership has shaped not only the direction of the college but also the future of the profession.
At Life West, students learn from individuals who don’t just talk about leadership—they live it.
We couldn’t be prouder. Congratulations, Dr. Oberstein, on this well-deserved honor, and thank you for your unwavering commitment to chiropractic, to our students, and to the global community we serve.
Want to learn more about the Life West experience and what sets us apart?
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