Roots of the Rogue – September 2025
FOR MORE THAN FOUR DECADES, Dr. Douglas Naversen has called Jacksonville home—a place where he’s built a thriving dermatology clinic, run countless miles, and built meaningful connections. You may have been fortunate enough to speak with Dr. Naversen, who has many stories to share about his life, or maybe you spotted him walking his Golden Retrievers or running the trails. But what you may not know is the lasting impact he has made on Jacksonville and the Rogue Valley. I had the honor of interviewing Dr. Naversen to share the story of his service, career, and lifelong love of running.
Born in Ohio, he began running with the dream of becoming the first high schooler to break the 4-minute mile. At just 17, he joined the United States Air Force Academy, where, as a freshman, he competed in Division I track as a half-miler. Among all students, Dr. Naversen was in the top 2% at the Air Force Academy and selected to attend medical school. He went on to attend Ohio State Medical School. After completing an internship in Texas and Dermatology training at UCSF, the Air Force assigned him to Alaska, where he spent five years. He joined an active running club there, running often in frozen and brutal weather. Though he enjoyed Anchorage, a visit to the Rogue Valley changed everything. He was amazed at the extensive and awesome trail systems Jacksonville would develop in future years, and he loved the warmer weather for running, as well as the small-town charm.
Ultimately, he moved to Jacksonville in 1982 with his wife and children and has proudly called it home since. He ran his clinic alone for 17 years, but it eventually got so busy that he brought on nine additional dermatologists. Now, his clinic is the largest dermatology clinic between Portland and Sacramento. “I am probably the only dermatologist in the country to live in such a little town,” he said, calling it a blessing to have his dream career while living in such a small place. His favorite spots in the Rogue Valley include the Britt Woods, Forest Park, and Applegate Lake—places that he has run hundreds of miles on, built trails for the community, and found peace. Dr. Naversen’s service to our community has laid the foundation for our town.
He served as the race director for the Stagecoach and Firehouse Runs for 20 years and has built trails at Britt and Forest Park. He also helped fund the Bear Creek Greenway and played a key role in supporting community projects, such as the library and youth sports. His latest project is the Rogue Rapid team, the youth swim powerhouse of our area. He is exceptionally proud of his family—his children and grandchildren—and gives back through healthcare, having built his Dermatology clinic, which provides jobs, benefits, and care to the entire area. Dr. Naversen, as I came to know, is a legendary lifelong runner. I am also a runner and highly inspired by his accomplishments. He ran his first marathon in 1977 while sleep-deprived and without food, yet still finished at 3:22. Years later, he ran a 2:55 at the California International and qualified for the legendary Boston Marathon, running 2:59. “Everyone says you don’t do your best the first time,” he said, smiling. Whether jogging with friends or racing strangers who became running partners mid-race, running has always been part of his life.
Dr. Naversen’s advice for the younger generation is clear – to work hard while living a balanced life, exercising your “BBC.” His story is not just about his career and legendary running status—it’s about generosity, service, and leading by example.
“Follow the BBC, not British Broadcasting Corporation, but exercise your Brain, Body, and Character.”
Featured image: Adley Damon with Dr. Douglas Naversen