The William G. Anderson, DO, Minority Scholarship was established in 1998 in recognition of the distinguished career of William G. Anderson, DO, and his life-long commitment to civil rights, his dogged pursuit of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, a decades-long dedication to the Osteopathic profession, and his generous philanthropic spirit.  

Purpose

This scholarship annually recognizes minority Osteopathic medical students who are committed to Osteopathic principles and practices, excel academically, and have proven to be leaders in addressing educational and societal barriers, as well as addressing health care needs of minority populations.  

Scholarship 

A limited number of  scholarships in the amount of $10,000 will be awarded to minority students who exemplify the scholarship’s purpose.  

Eligibility

• Minority* student in good standing at a College/School of Osteopathic Medicine (COM/SOM) who will be an OMS-III or OMS-IV during the fall of 2025. 
• If the COM/SOM ranks students, applicant must be in the top 50% of their class (displaying strong academic achievement while in medical school).
• Plays a leadership role in addressing the educational, societal, or health needs of minorities.   
• Multiple examples of their work to address inequities in medical education or health care. 
• Participates in volunteer activities outside of college-requirements that demonstrate their commitment to equity. Can include service projects, philanthropic activities, and health policy initiatives, etc.
• Current AOA membership required to apply. (You may register for complimentary AOA student membership here.)

*Minority is defined as those individuals identifying as African American; Asian American, Arab and other Middle Eastern American, Native American (including American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian); and Latinx or Hispanic students.  International students are also welcome to apply.

Application Requirements

• Completed online application – students may apply directly 
• A Letter of Good Standing from the Dean or their designee, confirming a strong (top 50%) academic standing and verification from the COM that, if received, this scholarship will not render the student ineligible for other financial aid opportunities or reduce the total aid for which they are eligible. An optional template is located here. 
• 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.
• A one (1) page personal statement outlining the applicant’s academic aptitude, and citing multiple, specific examples of their commitment to addressing health equity 
• Proof of complimentary AOA student membership
• Current resume or curriculum vitae (include memberships, Osteopathic or other) 

Review Process

Application period opens March 3, 2025, and closes May 12, 2025. Applicants and their COM/SOM will be notified of funding decisions by July 31, 2025.  Selected recipients will be invited to attend the American Osteopathic Foundation’s Honors Gala event on Friday, September 26, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee, TN, and will receive recognition of their scholarship in the Honors Tribute Book. Each recipient will also receive one (1) complimentary ticket to Honors and a travel stipend to defray travel and hotel accommodation costs to attend the event.  

Click here to access the application portal.

Proceeds from the sale of "Autobiographies of a Black Couple of the Greatest Generation" by William G. and Norma L. Anderson benefit this scholarship program. If you’re interested in receiving a copy, you can do so with a $32 donation to the William G. Anderson, DO, Minority Scholarships Fund through the American Osteopathic Foundation.