Decorah native and 1971 Luther graduate has been named a 2019 Woman of Influence

Des Moines University assistant professor Dr. Rebecca Shaw has been named a 2019 Women of Influence Honoree by Business Record.

Shaw, an assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Des Moines University, was recognized by the magazine not only for her work in her field, but for her commitment to the communities she serves and her dedication to mentoring young physicians.

Graduating from Luther College in 1971 with a degree in biology, Shaw went on to receive her M.D. from the University of Iowa, where she was one of just 15 women in a class of 125. Before joining Des Moines University, Shaw was an OB/GYN physician in private practice for 26 years and was named medical director of Iowa Health-Des Moines Midwifery Services in 2004. She estimates she brought about 8,000 babies into the world over the last four decades.  Shaw is also an Emeriti Regent of Luther College, having served for twelve years from 1989-2001.

"Luther College played a key role in my professional development. I always felt that the liberal arts education at Luther College gave me a solid foundation for a medical career," said Shaw.