We are saying goodbye to one of the most enduring figures at TUSPM. Dr. Howard Palamarchuk, TUSPM Class of 1979, has been with Temple University since he began his Undergraduate degree in History. Dr. Palamarchuk received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine at TUSPM and has been a professor for the past 38 years. Dr. Palamarchuk had a private practice in Bucks County for 13 years before becoming a full-time faculty member here. Dr. Palamarchuk’s interest in podiatry began with his career in race-walking. Starting race-walking at age 16, Dr. Palamarchuk was in the Olympic Trials by 19 and competed on the Jr. Team against the Soviet Union. During Dr. Palamarchuk’s time as a racewalker, the team podiatrist, Dr. Thomas Maglietta ’72 piqued his interest in caring for athletes.
Dr. Palamarchuk’s teaching goal was to get students out into the field, get hands-on experience, and share the podiatry world with others. Dr. Palamarchuk and a group of students were fixtures at events such as the Boston Marathon, Broad St. Run, Susan G. Komen Walk, and the “Last Patrol” Walk with the United States Marine Corps. Dr. Palamarchuk would bring Olympic athletes to the school to meet with students and facilitated a lucky few students to accompany the teams on international trips.
After retirement, Dr. Palamarchuk plans on spending more time with his children, Wendy and Max, who are both in college. Dr. Palamarchuk would also like to help at a community college to maintain his connection with students. Dr. Palamarchuk hopes that student assistance at sporting events and the taping workshops will be continued in his absence. Dr. Palamarchuk has been touched by the notes of encouragement and reminiscence on social media, stating that it was a “very validating and humbling experience” to know he has been able to touch so many lives. We will certainly miss Dr. Palamarchuk and wish Dr. Palamarchuk all the best!