Staff Reports
A Columbus surgeon recently received a national award for his achievements and contributions as an Eagle Scout, and his dedication to live by the Scout Oath and Law in his everyday life.
Dr. David M. Thompson was presented with the Outstanding Eagle Scout Award at the Hoosier Trails Council Recognition Gala on April 8, according to a news release.
The Outstanding Eagle Scout Award is a recognition granted by the local council’s NESA committee to Eagle Scouts — the highest advancement rank in Scouting — who have demonstrated outstanding achievement at the local, state or regional level, and have made a positive impact in the community.
Thompson earned his Eagle Scout rank in 1979. A Boy Scout must fulfill requirements in the areas of leadership, service and outdoor skills to achieve the rank.
Thompson is board certified in general surgery, and he has had advanced training in laparoscopic procedures. He previously was chief of surgery at Columbus Regional Health and chief of staff from 2012-14.
He is a member and fellow of the American College of Surgeons and Society of American Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) and a member of the American Society of Breast Surgeons.
Thompson graduated with honors from Indiana University School of Medicine in 1991. Both his surgical internship and surgical residencies were at the University of Kentucky.
He completed his fellowship in laparoscopy, endoscopy and ultrasound at St. Vincent Hospital and Health Center in Indianapolis before joining Southern Indiana Surgery in 1997. He has been affiliated with St. Vincent Jennings Hospital since 1997, and sits on its medical executive committee.
Thompson was named diplomat of the American Board of Surgery in 2000.
He currently sits on the Board of Directors of Our Hospice of South Central Indiana, a not-for–profit organization that for more than 35 years has provided unequaled hospice care in 16 counties surrounding Bartholomew County. Thompson previously was a board member from 2005 to 2013 and served as president for two years.
Thompson and his wife Kelli and three sons reside in Columbus and are members of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, where Thompson serves as a member of the vestry committee.
“He is as friendly and funny as he is compassionate and committed to improving the lives of everyone around him, and truly lives the values of an Eagle Scout every day,” Our Hospice Board President Laura Leonard said in her nomination letter.
The Outstanding Eagle Scout Award was established during the Boy Scouts of America’s 100th anniversary in 2010 to honor those who have inspired others through their actions and have devoted a lifetime to their profession, avocation, community and beliefs, at great sacrifice to themselves and their families.
