The National Emerging Leader Award was founded in 2002 to celebrate new Osteopathic physicians in practice who show exceptional leadership capabilities and exhibit the best of the Osteopathic profession. In 2019, the program was expanded to include recognition at the state level, through the State Emerging Leader Awards, to recognize the outstanding talent of new physicians in practice across the country. 

Each year, from the group of State Emerging Leader Award nominees, one new physician in practice will be chosen to receive the National Emerging Leader Award.  

Purpose

The State Emerging Leader Awards honor outstanding licensed Osteopathic physicians up to 10 years post residency 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

One recognition award will be presented to the nominee selected as the National Emerging Leader Award recipient. Each State Emerging Leader Award recipient 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 the AOA.
• Practicing physician 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 the nominee’s state association – 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 nominating organization and one (1) from an Osteopathic physician, professional mentor, or similar.
• Curriculum Vitae and a recent high-resolution, professional headshot suitable for publication.
• Proof of state association and/or AOA membership.
• Optional: Supporting documentation in the form of formal commendations, citations or awards, newspaper or magazine articles, or other media-related profiles will be accepted, but shall serve only as evidence to support the nomination.

Review Process

Nominations for the State Emerging Leader Awards will be accepted between March 16, 2026, and July 24, 2026. Each qualified State Emerging Leader Award nomination received by April 30, 2026, will be considered for the National Emerging Leader Award. All State Emerging Leader Award recipients will be announced in tandem with their state association; additional publicity will be provided via a national publication. 

Each 2026 State Emerging Leader Award recipient will receive one (1) complimentary ticket to the American Osteopathic Foundation’s Honors Gala, taking place on the Friday of OMED, October 23, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada. The 2026 National Emerging Leader Award recipient will receive two (2) complimentary tickets along with a travel stipend to defray travel and hotel costs to attend the event.

Click here to access the nomination portal.