HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Drs. Paul D. Akers and M. Jason Akers have established a scholarship at the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine in honor of their father, Paul V. Akers, M.D., a long-time radiologist in the Huntington community.   

The brothers, both of whom graduated from the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine—Paul in 1997 and Jason in 2003, set out to support entering medical students while honoring their father’s remarkable career in radiology through the Akers Family Scholarship.  

“As alumni, we understand the importance of supporting the School of Medicine, said the Akers “It is a privilege to provide this scholarship in honor of our father as recognition of his career in radiology education and clinical practice.”  

Dr. Paul V. Akers' journey in medicine began at Marshall University in the early 1960s. Following his graduation from the West Virginia University School of Medicine in 1969, he practiced emergency room medicine before serving as a flight surgeon in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of Major.  

Dr. Akers' commitment to the field of radiology flourished as he completed a diagnostic radiology residency at the University of Cincinnati. He then returned to Huntington to join Radiology, Inc. in 1976, where he practiced until his retirement in 2006. During that time, he served as professor and chair of the Department of Radiology at the School of Medicine; president of the medical staff at St. Mary’s Medical Center; and president of Radiology, Inc. His sons followed in his footsteps and are also diagnostic radiologists with Radiology, Inc.  

“The Akers family's commitment to quality medicine and education continues to impact the field of radiology in the Tri-State area,” said Linda S. Holmes, director of development and alumni affairs. “Their legacy will live on through this scholarship, ensuring that future generations can continue to impact medicine and education in a positive way.” 

The Akers Family Scholarship is designated for first-year medical students with first preference to residents of Cabell County and second preference to residents of Wayne County, West Virginia. The award is renewable for up to three additional years, pending normal academic progress. 

For more information or to make a gift to the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, please contact Holmes at 304.691.1711 or holmes@marshall.edu. For news and information about the school of medicine, follow us on X @MUSOMWV, like us on Facebook or visit jcesom.marshall.edu.   

Date Posted: Wednesday, May 22, 2024