The State Emerging Leader Awards were created in 2019 to recognize outstanding new physicians in practice across the country. Each year, from of the group of State Emerging Leaders Award winners from across the country, one new physician in practice will be chosen to receive the National Emerging Leader Award. 

Purpose

The National award serves to honor an outstanding licensed Osteopathic physician with up to 10 years post resident or fellowship, whose leadership inspires others, whose noticeable accomplishments motivate those around them, and whose medical knowledge, combined with patient empathy, enrich the lives of those they serve.

Award

Each State Emerging Leader Award winner will be recognized in a national publication and highlighted in both AOF and state-specific communications. Note: preference for the National Emerging Leader Award may be given to active members of the AOA.

Eligibility

• Licensed, practicing Osteopathic physician with up to 10 years in practice (post-residency or fellowship)
• Current member of state Osteopathic association or AOA
• Practicing physician making a difference in healthcare, whose dedication has improved the lives of their patients
• Promotes Osteopathic medicine and its philosophy
• Serves as a role model and strong leader who continuously uses their skills to better the profession
• Has numerous noteworthy accomplishments demonstrating their leadership
• Displays the qualities of an emerging leader through service to the profession and their community
• Makes a positive impact within Osteopathic organizations, through teaching, administration, committee work, advocacy, or representation in national associations
• Exhibits a philanthropic spirit through contributions of time, talent, or treasure

Nomination Requirements 

• Completed online nomination from state association or other Osteopathic organization– self-nominations are not accepted
• Two (2) letters of recommendation, providing confirmation of the nominee’s exemplary community service, leadership, and health advocacy involvement: one (1) from the nominator and one (1) from an Osteopathic physician, professional mentor, or similar 
• Curriculum Vitae and a recent high-resolution headshot suitable for publication
• Proof of state association and/or AOA membership

Review Process

State Emerging Leader nominations will be accepted between March 3, 2025, and June 16, 2025; all nominations received by May 19, 2025, will be eligible to be considered for the National Emerging Leader Award. State Emerging Leaders will be announced in tandem with the state association; additional publicity will be provided via a national publication. The 2025 National Emerging Leader Award winner will be invited to attend the American Osteopathic Foundation’s Honors Gala event on Friday, September 26, 2025, in Nashville, TN, and will receive two (2) complimentary tickets along with a travel stipend to defray travel and hotel accommodation costs to attend the event.

Click here to access the nomination portal.