After our stretch of snow days (virtual learning days) and a rescheduled visit, we were excited to finally make it to ChiroPro of Shiloh last week! And from the moment we walked in and were greeted with doughnuts and juice, our students felt welcomed.

That may seem like a small thing, but it matters. Especially to high school students who are learning how real businesses operate and how professionals treat people.

We had the opportunity to hear from Dr. Parker and Tina Winkler, Director of Operations, and both shared stories that immediately connected with our class. Dr. Parker talked about hurting his back at just 13 years old and realizing even then that he wanted to become a chiropractor. Tina shared how she first came to ChiroPro as a skeptical patient while managing Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, never imagining that experience would one day lead her into leadership.

Neither of their paths was simple. And that was important for our students to hear.

They also took time to walk us through everything ChiroPro offers. Students learned that they provide far more than traditional chiropractic care, including massage therapy, acupuncture, red light therapy, and other treatments designed to support the whole body. They were especially interested to learn how ChiroPro serves patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly, and how they tailor care to each individual.

They also learned about the business side of healthcare, including insurance challenges, operations, and what it takes to run a growing organization. Many were surprised to learn that ChiroPro now has five locations across the metro St. Louis area.

But what stood out most was not the size of the business. It was the culture.

One student wrote, “They taught me to put people above money.”
Another shared, “Even being a larger operation with multiple locations, it’s evident they truly care about their patients.”

Several students mentioned how welcomed they felt, even as visitors. One journal entry said, “Even though I was not a customer, I felt heavily welcomed.” That kind of environment does not happen by accident. It is built intentionally.

Another student wrote, “Failure with reflection is how you grow.” That sentence has stayed with me. It reflects exactly what our students are learning through experiences like this.

They are learning that business is about people. About perseverance. About learning from mistakes. About serving others well.

As I watched them walk through the clinic, ask questions, and take notes, I could see their confidence growing. They were not just observing. They were imagining themselves in these roles someday.

We are so thankful to Dr. Parker, Tina Winkler, and the entire ChiroPro of Shiloh team for opening their doors to our class and sharing their time, stories, and wisdom so generously.

Experiences like this shape how our students think about leadership, service, and success. We are grateful for partners like ChiroPro who model those values so beautifully for the Silver Creek Area CEO program.

Thank you for investing in our students and for showing them what it truly means to lead with heart.