Leading with Purpose: VUIM at the Helm of Progress in Acupuncture Education and Advocacy

At Virginia University of Integrative Medicine (VUIM), we believe that real leadership in healthcare starts by showing up—not just in the classroom or clinic—but in the rooms where ideas take shape, policy is influenced, and the future of our profession is forged.

This week, VUIM leadership is doing just that.

We’re honored to play a central role in two cornerstone events in our field: the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (CCAHM) 2025 Spring Conference and the American Society of Acupuncturists 2025 National Conference. Both in person and held jointly for the first time in years, these gatherings represent more than professional activities - they reflect a collective momentum toward better care, deeper education, and greater access to acupuncture, integrative medicine, and whole person health. 

Standing Tall at ACAHM 2025: Thought Leadership in Action

As educators, we don’t just prepare students—we help build the systems that will shape their careers and impact communities for generations. That’s why we’re proud that Dr. Thomas Kouo, VUIM’s Vice President of Academic Affairs, who is currently serving as President of the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (CCAHM) will be leading dialogue with our national colleagues about delivering educational excellence and quality patient care in our field of Acupuncture and the broader Integrative Medicine community. 

John Yoo, CEO of VUIM and Chair of the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (ACAHM)'s Board of Commissioners, will also speak at the conference, bringing his dual perspective as a regulatory leader and as Treasurer of the Society for Acupuncture Research (SAR). His message is simple but essential: scientific inquiry and traditional wisdom are not diametrically opposed - they’re partners. And when they work together, both our profession and our patients win.

Building Real Relationships: VUIM Hosts ACAHM Leaders on Campus

On Thursday evening during the CCAHM Conference, VUIM will proudly host an evening reception at our Virginia campus, welcoming leaders from ACAHM-accredited institutions across the country. This is more than a networking event - it’s a reminder that when we join together as a community, we build bridges. These moments of connection, humility, and hospitality are how we at VUIM feel great institutions move forward, together.

VUIM on Capitol Hill: Showing Up for the Profession at ASA 2025 and AOPS

At the 2025 ASA National Conference, VUIM is once again demonstrating what it means to lead by example. We’re not just attending - we’re participating in a movement!

On April 28, in partnership with the American Society of Acupuncturists (ASA), we’ll be part of the Acupuncture for our Public Servants (AOPS) event - bringing safe, effective, hands-on acupuncture demonstrations to members of Congress and their staff.

VUIM faculty and students will be there, shoulder to shoulder with licensed acupuncturists, supporting logistics, assisting treatments, and helping tell the story of how acupuncture improves lives—whether you’re in pain, under stress, or making decisions for a nation. We see this as a moment of advocacy, education, and above all, service.

Final Thoughts: This Is What Leadership Looks Like

If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s this: You don’t need to have all the answers to make an impact. You just need to keep showing up, keep listening, and keep building what matters.

VUIM’s presence at the CCAHM and ASA 2025 Conference reflects more than institutional prestige. It reflects our commitment to lead with humility, collaborate with intention, and serve with heart.

Because at the end of the day, this is what we’re here for: to make healthcare more human, more accessible, and more grounded in wisdom that’s stood the test of time.

This week will serve as just another opportunity to continue doing this work, together. 

See you in Arlington!