The AOF Edward & Joanne Loniewski Merit Scholarship was established by Dr. and Mrs. Edward A. Loniewski, DO, before his passing in 2018.  Dr. Loniewski, served as Board President of both the AOA and the AOF, sharing his commitment to the profession, as well as his passion for giving back. 

Purpose

This Fund provides a bi-annual scholarship of $5,000 to one OMS III or OMS IV student who graduated from a Michigan high school. This scholarship was last offered in 2024.

Scholarship

One (1) educational scholarship of $5,000 will be presented to one (1) OMS III or OMS IV student who has noteworthy academic achievement, demonstrates leadership qualities within the classroom or community, and demonstrates financial need. 

Eligibility

• Current OMS III or IV, enrolled at a College/School of Osteopathic Medicine (COM/SOM), who graduated from a Michigan high school
• Must have demonstrated leadership qualities within the classroom and community
• Must have an unmet financial need
• Must not put other grants or scholarships at risk by accepting this award
• Complimentary student membership in the AOA required to apply.

Application Requirements

• Completed online application form – self nominations accepted
• A Letter of Good Standing from the Dean or their representative confirming a strong (top 50%) academic standing and verification that, if received, this award will not render the student illegible for other grants/scholarship opportunities within the school.
• Two (2) letters of recommendation from the following list: academic medical instructor, Osteopathic physician, professional mentor, or similar professional within the Osteopathic profession that describe how the applicant exemplifies the purpose of the award. NOTE: one must be from an Osteopathic Physician.
• Brief (one page) personal statement addressing criteria specific to the award
• Curriculum Vitae or Resume (include all memberships, Osteopathic or other).
• Proof of AOA membership
• Proof of graduation from a Michigan high school (diploma, transcript, etc.)

Review Process

Applications open February 23, 2026 and close April 30, 2026. Incomplete applications will NOT be reviewed. Applicants will be notified in July and scholarship will be disbursed upon completion of the required paperwork.

Access the application portal here.