Schwarzenegger honors Western U president

Among his last acts as governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger sent a proclamation recognizing the work of Western University of Health Sciences President Philip Pumerantz.

The University announced this week the former governor sent the proclamation last month in which he praised Pumerantz for his leadership and service to the state and to health care.

Schwarzenegger left office Monday.

"It is a pleasure to extend my gratitude for your years of service to the osteopathic medical community," states the proclamation.

"Your distinguished career is a testament to your outstanding mentorship of your peers and extensive contributions to the medical community. Your ability to balance a wide range of roles is admirable and you have earned the respect and admiration of your peers. Your work will have a tremendous impact on future generations of Californians and you are truly an inspiring example to all of us."

Pumerantz is the founding president of the university, which was established in 1977 as the College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific.

Since then the institution has grown into a comprehensive health sciences university with nine colleges and 21 degree programs.