The American Osteopathic Foundation’s Jeffrey S. Grove, DO, LGBTQ+ Pride Scholarship was established by Dr. Grove, who inspired the creation of AOF’s LGBTQIA+ Equity and Inclusion Initiative to better address the healthcare needs of LGBTQIA+ communities through educational scholarships, CME training, and diversity-enriching programs. 

Purpose

This scholarship recognizes an Osteopathic medical student committed to understanding and addressing the unique healthcare needs of LGBTQIA+ communities through Osteopathic medicine.  Pride Scholars recognize LGBTQIA+ identity, affirm equal rights for all, and celebrate the dignity and diversity of everyone in LGBTQIA+ and other marginalized communities. 

Scholarship 

A scholarship of $10,000 will be presented to one (1) individual who exemplifies the scholarship purpose.

Eligibility

• 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).
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, inclusion, equity, and quality healthcare for all. 
• Participation in extracurricular activities that promote Osteopathic medicine and LGBTQIA+ health equity.
• Volunteer activities, additional studies, research, or leadership experience in LGBTQIA+ organizations and/or other marginalized communities.
• Current AOA membership required to apply. (You may register for complimentary AOA student membership here).

Application Requirements

• Completed online application – students may apply directly. 
• A Letter of Good Standing from the Dean or their designee, confirming a strong (50th percentile) 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 scholarship purpose. NOTE: one must be from an Osteopathic Physician.
• A one (1) page personal statement that outlines how the student exemplifies the purpose of this scholarship.
• Proof of AOA student membership.
• Current curriculum vitae or resume (include memberships, Osteopathic or other).

Review Process

Application period opens March 3, 2025, and closes May 12, 2025. Applications are reviewed by an independent panel; the selected student will have the top aggregate score. Applicants and their COM/SOM will be notified of funding decisions by July 31, 2025.  The selected recipient will be given one (1) complimentary ticket to the following American Osteopathic Foundation events held in association with OMED 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee: the LGBTQ+ Diversity & Inclusion Initiative Reception on Thursday, September 25 and Honors Gala on Friday, September 26, 2025. The 2025 LGBTQ+ Pride Scholar will receive one (1) complimentary ticket to the Reception and one (1) complimentary ticket to the Gala. They will  also receive recognition in the Honors Tribute Book and through social media channels. The recipient will also receive a reimbursable travel stipend to defray travel and hotel accommodation costs to attend the events. 

Click here to access the application portal.