HOUGHTON COLLEGE RECOGNIZES ALUMNA OF THE YEAR DIANE KOMP

HOUGHTON, N.Y. – Houghton College alumna Diane Komp was recognized as the 2006 Alumna of the Year at the Founders’ Day chapel on Oct. 6.  

After graduating from Houghton in 1961, Komp earned her medical degree from SUNY downstate medical center completing a pediatric residency at Kings County Hospital and a fellowship in pediatric hematology and oncology at the University of Virginia. She then joined the pediatric faculty at the same university and served as chief of hematology/oncology. In 1978 she joined the faculty at Yale University School of Medicine and taught there until her retirement a few years ago.

Komp has authored eight books including “A Window to Heaven: When Children See Life in Death,” “Anatomy of a Lie,” “Images of Grace,” and “The Healer’s Heart.” Her dual career as pediatrician and writer has been featured in the New York Times, The Washington Post, Family Circle, Guideposts, Christianity Today and Today’s Christian Woman. She is a frequent guest speaker including an appearance on NBC’s "Today Show."

“Komp’s career has been one of outstanding educator, practitioner and scholar. Her academic resume includes several textbook chapters, 85 articles and two dozen essays and reviews,” said Jim Hilliard, president of Houghton’s alumni association. “Her ability to see hope in the midst of desperate illness and spiritual courage in the lives of children, as she conveys in her writing, has helped thousands of readers around the world find hope in their own struggles.”

The Houghton College Alumni Association constantly seeks opportunities to recognize graduates and friends of the school who have distinguished themselves in their communities, churches and careers. Those chosen to receive the Alumni of the Year awards have foremost demonstrated a firm, personal commitment to Christ and the advancement of His Kingdom.