Dr. Frances Allen

Dr. Frances Ann Allen was a distinguished physician, writer, and teacher who specialized in internal medicine. She was recognized by her profession and constituency for her outstanding service and research.

A native of Doniphan, Missouri, Dr. Allen came to Southeast Missouri State University in 1933 as a recipient of the Webster-Sorosis Scholarship. She graduated in 1937 with a major in history and physical education.

In 1939, Dr. Allen entered the University of Kansas School of Medicine followed by an internship at the University of Iowa Medical School. For nine years, Dr. Allen maintained a very active general medical practice at Bethel Clinic in Newton, Kansas. In July of 1953, she returned to the University Kansas Medical School for residency training in the field of Internal Medicine. During this three year period of post-graduate study, Dr. Allen participated in research involving the radioactive isotope of red blood cell survival time in liver disease. This research was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Returning to Newton, she became chairman of the Medical Department of the Bethel Deaconess Hospital, and earned recognition as a leader in the research of the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.

Dr. Allen was a 1976 Alumni Award recipient from Southeast and also a member of the Foundation’s President’s Council and Horizon Club.

Dr. Allen passed away on February 28, 2016, at the age of 100, just four months shy of her 101st birthday. She has left a legacy behind in the medical field in Newton, Kansas, and nationally.