The American Osteopathic Foundation’s (AOF) Sterling K. Welch, DO, Fund was established in 1965 through a bequest from Dr. Welch’s estate. Scholarships are awarded annually in honor of Dr. Welch’s outstanding generosity to the AOF and his commitment to supporting Osteopathic medical students and advancing education.

Originally awarded to one student annually, this scholarship fund has grown in its capacity and currently supports  one scholarship per COM/SOM and branch campus.

Purpose

This educational scholarship is awarded annually to Osteopathic medical students with significant financial need (as identified by COMs/SOMs), who continue to maintain a strong academic performance, participate in volunteer service activities, and demonstrate a strong commitment to Osteopathic medicine. 

Scholarship
One (1) $2,000 scholarship may be awarded annually to a student from each eligible COCA-accredited COM/SOM, or branch campus, who demonstrates significant financial need. The scholarship is intended to help offset expenses associated with Osteopathic medical education.

Eligibility

• OMS I, II or III in good standing at a COCA-accredited College/School of Osteopathic Medicine (COM/SOM)  the time of submission.
• Verified, significant financial need.
• Exemplifies 2 (two) 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. 
• Active AOA membership required to apply. (Complimentary AOA student membership here.)
• NOTE: Prior Golden Ticket Scholarship finalists are ineligible for this scholarship. 

Nomination Requirements

• Completed online nomination form – student must be nominated by their COM/SOM Dean or designee.
• A Letter of Recommendation from the Dean, Dean of Osteopathic Education, or similar, which verifies student is in good standing, and confirms a strong (top 50%) academic standing.   
• A completed Student Financial Aid Assessment Form, confirming the nominee’s details for the current  academic year. This form must be completed and signed by a representative from the COM/SOM Financial Aid Office.
• A personal statement from the nominee explaining how the  Welch scholarship  will have a positive impact on their medical education.
• Current curriculum vitae or resume.
• Proof of current AOA student membership.

Review Process

Nominations are accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis from August  through November.  Recipients and their COM/SOM will be notified as Scholarships are  approved.. One (1) scholarship recipient per COM/SOM or branch campus per calendar year may be granted.

Click here to access the nomination portal.