Sterling resident Dr. Thomas Simpson was honored with the highest alumni award from Sterling College, the Distinguished Service Award, for his lifetime of service to the community and the College. The award recognizes an alumna or alumnus who exemplifies the purposes for which Sterling College exists –  exceptional contributions to society, distinguished professional accomplishment, and outstanding leadership and character.

“Dr. Simpson is a legend in the community, surrounding counties and the state of Kansas. His outstanding leadership and humble spirit are just two of the characteristics that make him a servant leader,” said Scott Rich, president.

Simpson graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the College of Emporia in 1969 and went on to graduate from Kansas University School of Medicine in 1973. He was board certified in 1976 and followed with three years as lieutenant commander in the U.S. Navy in New Hampshire. He and his wife, Linda, returned in 1978 to Sterling, Kansas, where he began a family medical practice and served in this capacity for 30 years. During that time, Simpson worked in three different hospitals and served with seven different medical professional associations. He has been a consultant for perinatal care since 1988.

In addition to his medical accomplishments and service, Simpson has worked with 17 community service organizations, including several roles in Boy Scouts of America, the Sterling Volunteer Fire Department, the Sterling City Commission, the Kansas Health Institute, Habitat for Humanity and Sterling Presbyterian Manor. He currently serves as an elder at Sterling United Presbyterian Church, chairman of the board for Lil Cubs Daycare, institutional representative for Boy Scout Troop 369 and director of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas, where he also serves on two sub-committees.

Simpson’s involvement with Sterling College also dates back more than 30 years when Simpson served as the team doctor for the Warrior football program. As team doctor, he would attend every game, home and away. According to his daughter, Anne-Marie Friesema, it was during the early years in Sterling that Simpson’s wife, Linda, helped him create the foster family program, a relationship between the students at Sterling College and community members, that is still running today. Simpson has served on the Sterling College Board of Trustees since 1988.

Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kansas, with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit www.sterling.edu.