The American Osteopathic Foundation’s 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 biennial scholarship of $5,000 to one OMS-III or OMS-IV studentwho graduated from a Michigan high school.

Scholarship

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

Eligibility

• Students in good standing at a COCA-accredited College/School of Osteopathic Medicine (COM/SOM) who will be an OMS-III or OMS-IV during the 2026-2027 academic year who graduated from a Michigan high school.
• Must have demonstrated leadership qualities within the classroom and community.
• Must have an unmet financial need, as determined by the COM/SOM Financial Aid Office.
• Must not put other grants or scholarships at risk by accepting this award.
• Complimentary student membership in the AOA is required to apply.

Application Requirements

• Completed online application form (students my apply directly).
• One (1) letter of recommendation from the Dean, Dean of Osteopathic Education, or similar administrator verifying the student is in good standing, confirming strong academic standing (top 50% if ranked), and verifying that receipt of this scholarship will not render the student ineligible for other financial aid or reduce total aid received.
• A Letter of Financial Need from the Director of Financial Aid or their representative confirming that the student qualifies for financial aid and outlines their unmet financial need. Letter should verify that, if received, this scholarship will not render the student ineligible for other financial aid opportunities or reduce the total aid they are receiving.
• Two (2) additional letters of recommendation from the following: an academic medical instructor, Osteopathic physician, professional mentor, or similar professional within the Osteopathic profession that describe how the applicant exemplifies the purpose of the scholarship. Note: one letter must be from an Osteopathic physician.
• A personal statement outlining the applicant’s demonstrated leadership qualities and how the scholarship will help meet their financial need.
• Official confirmation of graduation from a Michigan high school (diploma, official transcript, etc.).
• Current curriculum vitae or resume (including all memberships and volunteer positions, Osteopathic or otherwise).
• Proof of AOA membership.

Review Process

Applications will be accepted beginning Monday, February 23, 2026, and will close on Thursday, April 30, 2026. Incomplete applications will NOT be reviewed. Applications are reviewed by an independent panel; the selected student will be the applicant with the highest aggregate score. Applicants and their SOM/COM will be notified of funding decisions by July 31, 2026. 

The selected recipient will receive one (1) complimentary ticket to attend AOF’s Honors Gala, on Friday, October 23, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada, where they will have the opportunity to meet leaders in the Osteopathic profession and will be recognized as the AOF 2026 Edward & Joanne Loniewski Merit Scholarship recipient in the Honors Tribute Book. 

Click here to access the application portal.