Todd Emerson ’92, DO, ABFP, became fascinated with health and anatomy as a child when his family moved from the U.S. to Liberia. His mother was a nurse and his father was a pastor. Along with his two siblings, Emerson enjoyed observing doctors, engaging in ministry, and being immersed in a beautiful culture. Watching his parents care for both the physical and spiritual aspects of patients’ health laid the groundwork for Emerson’s lifelong vocation as a doctor. As an alumnus of Azusa Pacific University, Emerson is happy to serve as the medical director of the Student Health Center.
Originally from Seattle, Emerson’s family lived in West Africa for eight years. Emerson was only two-years-old when they made the move, and he values having grown up with exposure to gorgeous nature and hospitable people. “Spending my childhood in Africa, observing amazing doctors and witnessing God move through His people was an amazing experience,” Emerson said.
Emerson’s family returned to Seattle, and when deciding where to attend college, he was drawn to APU’s opportunities in sports, mission work, and spiritual life. Emerson loved playing on the baseball team and studying biology. “Having grown up in a mission field, I felt like I had already fulfilled that part of my life’s journey, but APU rekindled my heart for service through global engagement trips,” he said. Traveling to Mexico, and Romania opened his eyes to seeing the Lord’s image in those he ministered to. He recalls being spontaneously requested to preach in Romania, and asking the pastor if he could have a heads up in the future. The pastor told Emerson, “If Jesus is alive in your heart you should always have something to share with others,” which stuck with Emerson, transforming the trajectory of his life.
After graduating in 1992, Emerson went to Kansas City University of Health Sciences for his osteopathic medical degree. While medical school was rigorous, Emerson’s passion for learning about the way the body works drove him to keep pushing toward his goal. “Everyday was eventful to me because I’ve always been enamored by cellular processes, and how fearfully and wonderfully God made us,” he said. Emerson is grateful for how well APU’s science program prepared him for becoming a doctor. For three years Emerson completed his residency at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Phoenix, Ariz. Inspired by his uncle, who was an orthopedic surgeon and team doctor for the Phoenix Suns, Emerson initially hoped to follow in his uncle’s footsteps. However, Emerson discovered that his heart gravitated more toward working with high school and college students, which led him to opening a private practice.
For nearly a decade Emerson devoted himself to his family practice, but it made being present for his wife and children difficult. Emerson’s wife picked up the phone when APU called about the medical director position opening, and she immediately said that he would take the job. In 2008, Emerson returned to his alma mater. Over the years he has experienced the same kind of growth, kindness, and spiritual development he first encountered as an undergraduate, and is glad to now serve as a mentor to students.
As medical director, Emerson ensures APU’s health center is practicing the best medical care and staying up to date with its services. All undergraduate students are eligible to visit the Student Health Center in Magnolia Court in the Shire Mods for free care. From a broken bone, to blood tests, to women’s health needs, Emerson encourages students to be seen by a medical professional when needed. Students do not have to opt for the insurance plan in order to have this free resource. They can make appointments online through MyCougar Health Patient Portal in their home.apu.edu account.
“We have a unique opportunity in Christian higher education to make a difference, and that’s why I’m at APU,” Emerson said.
From accompanying students on mission trips to Mexico and India, to having fun with his staff on a daily basis, Emerson has found joy in doing what he loves at a place that seeks to glorify Christ. Even during difficult seasons, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Emerson and his colleagues bonded by creatively assisting each other and students to continue providing quality care.
For Emerson, being involved in student life is not only his day job, but his calling. “There is such a special feeling at APU. Students graduate transformed in the same way I was when I went here,” he said. “Living life together in this community is worthwhile.”