The American Osteopathic Foundation’s Sterling K. Welch, DO, Fund was established in 1965 through a bequest from Dr. Welch’s estate. Annually, scholarships are given in honor of Dr. Welch’s outstanding generosity to the AOF and his desire to support Osteopathic medical students and promote education, this grant was established to provide monetary aid to Osteopathic medical students.

Originally awarded to one student annually, this scholarship has grown in its capacity to award one scholarship per COM/SOM. 

Purpose

This educational scholarship is awarded annually to Osteopathic medical students with significant financial need (as identified by COMs/SOMs), as well as strong academic achievement, participation in volunteer service activities, and a strong commitment to Osteopathic medicine. 

Scholarship

A scholarship of $2,000 will be presented to one (1) student with significant and demonstrated financial constraints from each qualifying COM/SOM, branch campus, and location to help offset expenses associated with Osteopathic medical school.

Eligibility

• OMS I, II or III in good standing at a College/School of Osteopathic Medicine (COM/SOM) at time of nomination.
• Demonstrated, significant financial need and exemplifies at least 2 of the following additional requirements:
• Good academic standing (50th percentile) with strong academic achievements.
• Volunteer community service activities beyond COM/SOM requirements.
• Strong and clearly noticeable affinity for Osteopathic medicine. 
• Current AOA membership required to apply. (Complimentary AOA student membership here.)
• Prior Golden Ticket Scholarship finalists and winners are ineligible for this scholarship.  

Nomination Requirements

• Completed online nomination form – student must be nominated by COM/SOM 
• A Letter of Good Standing from the Dean or their designee, indicating for which of the following requirements the student was nominated: academic standing and achievements, community service activities outside of college requirements, and strong affinity for Osteopathic medicine.  An optional template is located here. 
• A Letter of Financial Need from the Director of Financial Aid or their representative confirming that the student qualifies for financial aid and verification that, if received, this scholarship will not render the student ineligible for other financial aid opportunities or reduce the total aid for which they are eligible. An optional template is located here.
• A one (1) page personal statement from the nominee explaining how the educational grant will be used.
• Current curriculum vitae or resume (include memberships, Osteopathic or other), and a current photo
• Proof of AOA student membership

Review Process

Nominations are accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis from March 3, 2025, through October 31, 2025.  The student and their SOM/COM will be notified as nominations are approved, but no later than December 31, 2025. One (1) scholarship recipient per COM/SOM per calendar year (AOF fiscal year).

Click here to access the nomination portal.