In partnership with Osteopathic State Affiliates, the AOF proudly recognizes exceptional new physicians in practice who provide service to others through Osteopathic tenets and principles, advocacy efforts, community service, and philanthropic spirit. All Osteopathic State Affiliates are invited to recognize and advance one DO each year who are in their first 10 years of practice. From this group, one is selected by Osteopathic peers and industry leaders across the country to receive the coveted National Emerging Leader Award.
Each year, the AOF features all State Emerging Leaders in an advertisement in the U.S. News & World Report's Best Hospitals edition.
Download the ad from the 2025 U.S. News & World Report's Best Hospitals.
National Emerging Leader Award
The American Osteopathic Foundation honored John W. Diefenderfer, DO with the National Emerging Leader Award at the AOF 2024 Honors Gala in San Antonio, TX, on September 20, 2024. He was selected as the State Emerging Leader for Maine by the Maine Osteopathic Association (MOA).
Dr. Diefenderfer is not just a rising leader in Osteopathic Medicine—he’s a driving force for positive change, deeply rooted in his commitment to both his local community in Maine and the broader Osteopathic community. A 2015 graduate of the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM), Dr. Diefenderfer’s journey from medical school to becoming a recognized leader in his field has been marked by his dedication to advancing Osteopathic medicine through education, patient care, and community service. In his role as a faculty member at the Maine-Dartmouth Family Medicine Residency program, Dr. Diefenderfer wears many hats, balancing his time between teaching in the Family Medicine and Osteopathic Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine (ONMM3) residencies. His dual focus reflects his unwavering dedication to integrating Osteopathic principles into every facet of medical training and practice. Whether he’s supervising residents, coordinating didactic sessions, or chairing committees focused on Osteopathic education, Dr. Diefenderfer is fully immersed in shaping the future of Osteopathic medicine.
Beyond his work in medical education, Dr. Diefenderfer is a passionate advocate for the Osteopathic profession. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Maine Osteopathic Association (MOA), where he co-chairs the Professional and Public Education Committee. His efforts have revitalized the MOA's commitment to showcasing student and resident research at continuing medical education (CME) events, ensuring these forums are both enriching and beneficial for all who attend. His influence doesn’t stop at the state level—Dr. Diefenderfer represents Maine on the national stage as a delegate in the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) House of Delegates. His colleague, Joel Kase, DO, MPH, and Third Vice President of the AOA, describes him as a “tireless advocate for his colleagues and the profession as a whole.”
John is a tireless advocate for his colleagues and the profession as a whole. Joel Kase, DO, MPH 2024
Dr. Diefenderfer’s scholarly achievements are just as impressive as his leadership roles. He regularly presents at national conferences and contributes to clinical publications, always
eager to share his knowledge and expertise with his peers and trainees. His commitment to research and education is further demonstrated through his active involvement in the
American Academy of Osteopathy (AAO), where he promotes Osteopathic principles and practices.
He is also deeply committed to giving back to his community, providing sideline medical coverage for local high school athletic events, and ensuring the safety and well-being of student-athletes. He also serves on the board of The Friends of Quarry Road, a local nonprofit organization that promotes outdoor recreation and wellness in the community.
Dr. Diefenderfer’s hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. He was honored as the MOA Young Physician of the Year in 2022 and was recently selected to join the prestigious 2024 AOA Leadership Academy. These honors are a testament to his leadership potential and his unwavering commitment to the Osteopathic profession.
As Dr. Diefenderfer continues to grow in his career, his impact on the field of Osteopathic Medicine is sure to expand. His dedication to education, patient care, and community service positions him as a true emerging leader in Osteopathic medicine.
State Emerging Leader Awards
Arizona
EREN URAL, DO
The AOF and the Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association (AOMA) are excited to name Eren Ural, DO, the 2024 Arizona State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Eren Ural is a dedicated Osteopathic physician currently serving as a faculty member at the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine. In this role, she actively shapes the future of Osteopathic medicine by educating medical students and residents, with a particular focus on integrating Osteopathic principles into patient care.
In addition to her academic responsibilities, Dr. Ural is actively involved in professional organizations, including the Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association. She has been recognized for her contributions to the medical community and is known for her leadership and advocacy in promoting Osteopathic medicine at both the state and national levels.
Her work extends beyond patient care and education, as she participates in key initiatives aimed at improving the healthcare system for both practitioners and patients.
Dr. Ural earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Des Moines University, where she developed a strong foundation in holistic and patient-centered care.
California
SIMRAN BEHNIWAL, DO, MPH
The AOF and the Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons of California (OPSC) are excited to name Simran Behniwal, DO, the 2024 California State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Simran Behniwal is currently a pediatrician at Sutter Health, where she has been practicing since July 2024. Prior to this role, she served as a pediatrician at Kaiser Permanente from September 2022 to December 2023.
Throughout her career, Dr. Behniwal has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing pediatric care and promoting public health initiatives. Her clinical expertise is complemented by her leadership roles, including serving as a board member of the Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons of California, where she has worked on initiatives focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare.
Dr. Behniwal's dedication to advocacy is reflected in her founding of the Kaiser Oakland Pediatrics Advocacy Committee and her leadership in the Pediatrics Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity Committee. Her contributions to the medical field extend to mentorship, where she has guided underrepresented medical students through their journeys to pediatric residencies. Dr. Behniwal earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Nevada in 2018 and completed a combined Pediatrics Residency and Master’s in Public Health program at Kaiser Permanente Northern California and the University of California, Berkeley.
Florida
JOHN DAHDAH, DO
The AOF and the Florida Osteopathic Medical Association (FOMA) are excited to name John Dahdah, DO, the 2024 Florida State Emerging Leader.
Dr. John R. Dahdah is currently a staff physician in the Intensive Care Unit at Advent Health Tampa, where he has been practicing since 2019. In this role, Dr. Dahdah provides critical care to patients, with a focus on both medical and neurological conditions. His expertise in critical care has earned him recognition as the Clinical Documentation Integrity Provider of the Month and Employee of the Month for the Medical-Neurological ICU in February 2023. He is known for his ability to manage complex cases and his commitment to improving patient outcomes.
Dr. Dahdah completed a fellowship in Critical Care Medicine at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, where he also earned a Certificate of Excellence in Healthcare Communication. His training was built on a strong foundation from his residency in Internal Medicine at Geisinger Medical Center, where he served as Chief Resident and received multiple awards, including the American Osteopathic Foundation Resident of the Year.
Dr. Dahdah earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Georgia
LUCIE NORISCAT MITCHELL, DO
The AOF and the Georgia Osteopathic Medical Association (GOMA) are excited to name Lucie Noriscat Mitchell, DO, the 2024 Georgia State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Lucie Noriscat Mitchell is currently an Interventional Spine & Pain Physician at Atrium-Harbin in Rome, Georgia. Prior to this, she was a partner at the Harbin Clinic’s Spine and Pain Center from 2020 to 2024. In addition to her work at Atrium-Harbin, Dr. Mitchell serves as a physiatrist at Redmond Medical Center, continuing her dedication to patient care and pain management. Her clinical expertise is complemented by her role as clinical faculty at the Medical College of Georgia and the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, where she educates the next generation of physicians.
Dr. Mitchell’s career is also distinguished by her active involvement in professional organizations, such as the Georgia Osteopathic Medical Association (GOMA), where she serves as a board member and District I president. Her leadership and dedication to improving healthcare have made her a recognized figure in the Osteopathic community.
Dr. Mitchell earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine. She also holds a Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences from Georgia Campus-Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Illinois
SHOJI SAMSON, DO
The AOF and the Illinois Osteopathic Medical Society (IOMS) are excited to name Shoji Samson, DO, the 2024 Illinois State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Shoji Samson is a double board-certified physician in General Pediatrics and Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, currently serving as a neonatologist at the University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria (UICOMP). In his role, Dr. Samson cares for critically ill newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), providing specialized treatments such as ECMO, therapeutic hypothermia, and advanced ventilation techniques.
In addition to his clinical duties, Dr. Samson is actively involved in medical education, teaching fellows, residents, and medical students. He is also engaged in research, with interests that include pediatric asthma, retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), antimicrobial stewardship, and neonatal neurodevelopment. His passion for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work is reflected in his efforts to develop curriculum for LGBTQ+ medicine for residents.
Dr. Samson earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2014. He completed his pediatric residency at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York, in 2017, followed by a fellowship in Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine at Baylor Scott & White-Texas A&M University in 2020.
Maryland
TAISEI SUZUKI, DO
The AOF and the Maryland Association for Osteopathic Physicians (MAOP) are excited to name Taisei Suzuki, DO, the 2024 Maryland State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Taisei Suzuki is currently a Family Medicine Physician at Unity Health Care in Washington, D.C., where he has served since 2018. In addition to his clinical duties, he is the Medical Director at Frederick County Jail in Maryland, where he provides care to incarcerated individuals, focusing on chronic care and substance abuse treatment using Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) and medical acupuncture. Dr. Suzuki also holds academic roles as a Clinical Assistant Professor at George Washington University and an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor of Family Medicine at A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona.
Dr. Suzuki is highly active in leadership and educational initiatives, having served as the Associate Program Director of the Wright Center National Family Medicine Residency Program and as President of the Maryland Association for Osteopathic Physicians. His dedication to advancing Osteopathic principles is evident through his numerous roles in professional organizations.
Dr. Suzuki earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from A.T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2015. He also holds a Master of International Public Health from the University of Sydney.
Michigan
LAUREN AZEVEDO, DO
The AOF and the Michigan Osteopathic Association (MOA) are excited to name Lauren Azevedo, DO, the 2024 Michigan State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Lauren Azevedo is a general pediatrician who currently serves at Michigan State University Health Care, the Ingham County Health Department, and as a staff physician at Sparrow and McLaren Hospitals in Lansing, Michigan. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Azevedo is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, where she plays a critical role in the education and mentorship of medical students and residents. She also holds several leadership roles, including Director of Preclerkship Clinical Education and Course Director for multiple foundational and clinical courses in pediatrics and Osteopathic patient care.
Her leadership extends beyond the classroom as she contributes significantly to the Michigan Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, where she has held positions such as Secretary and Chair of the Education and Ethics Committees. Dr. Azevedo's work in pediatric ethics and patient care has earned her numerous accolades, including the American Academy of Pediatrics Special Achievement Award.
Dr. Azevedo earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine following a Master’s in Pharmacology and Toxicology, also from MSU.
Mississippi
JONATHAN DAVISON REVES, DO
The AOF and the Mississippi Osteopathic Medical Association (MOMA) are excited to name Jonathan Davison Reves, DO the 2024 Mississippi State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Jonathan Davison Reves is an Internal Medicine Hospitalist at St. Dominic’s Hospital in Jackson, Mississippi, where he has been providing exceptional care to patients with complex medical needs. In addition to his work at St. Dominic’s, he serves as the Medical Director for Compassus Hospice in Flowood, Mississippi, overseeing compassionate end-of-life care for patients. His leadership extends into the academic realm, where he is an Adjunct Clinical Professor at William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine, mentoring future physicians and guiding them through their medical training.
Dr. Reves is an active member of the Mississippi Osteopathic Medical Association (MOMA), holding roles such as Treasurer and Secretary, and contributing to numerous committees including Strategic Planning and Program Planning. His leadership within MOMA and involvement with the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) highlight his commitment to advancing Osteopathic medicine.
Dr. Reves earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Nova Southeastern University after completing his undergraduate studies in Biology at Mississippi College.
Missouri
JORDAN PALMER, DO
The AOF and the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons (MAOPS) are excited to name Jordan Palmer, DO, the 2024 Missouri State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Jordan Palmer is currently a family medicine physician at Complete Family Medicine in Kirksville, Missouri, where he provides comprehensive care with a focus on Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT). In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Palmer serves as adjunct faculty at A.T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM) and is the Director of the Student Health Center and University Counseling Services at Truman State University.
Dr. Palmer’s contributions to the field of family medicine are reflected in his leadership roles, including serving as Chief Resident during his residency at the University of Wyoming Family Medicine Residency program, where he graduated in 2020. He is also an active member of the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons (MAOPS), where he holds various committee positions and mentors students.
Dr. Palmer earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from A.T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Montana
DOROTHY SIZEMORE, DO
The AOF and the Montana Osteopathic Medical Association (MOMA) are excited to name Dorothy Sizemore, DO, the 2024 Montana State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Dorothy Sizemore is a dedicated family medicine physician currently practicing in rural Montana, where she provides comprehensive healthcare to underserved populations. She is known for her patient-centered approach, combining her expertise in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) with a holistic view of patient care. Her passion for rural health and advocacy for quality healthcare delivery has earned her recognition as a leader in the field.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Sizemore is actively involved with the Montana Osteopathic Medical Association, having served in a variety of leadership roles, and contributing to initiatives aimed at advancing Osteopathic medicine in the state. Her leadership and advocacy have helped shape policies that support healthcare providers in rural areas, furthering the mission of osteopathic medicine to deliver whole-person care.
Dr. Sizemore earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from the Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences College of Osteopathic Medicine.
New Jersey
ADEDOYIN ADERINTO, DO
The AOF and the New Jersey Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons (NJAOPS) are excited to name Adedoyin Aderinto, DO, the 2024 New Jersey State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Adedoyin Aderinto is an Academic Hospitalist Physician at Capital Health in Hopewell/Trenton, New Jersey, where she has been practicing since 2020. In addition to her clinical work, she holds the position of Lead Hospitalist Physician, a role she assumed in December 2022.
Dr. Aderinto is also dedicated to medical education, actively teaching and mentoring resident physicians, medical students, and advanced practice providers. Her focus on palliative care adds a compassionate dimension to her practice, emphasizing the importance of holistic patient care.
Before her current role, Dr. Aderinto was involved in academia, teaching at Meadville Medical Center in Pennsylvania, where she contributed to the education of healthcare professionals. Her passion for education and leadership is evident in her active participation on various committees and wellness initiatives at Capital Health, where she helps shape the future of healthcare delivery.
Dr. Aderinto earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Rowan (now Rowan-Virtua) University School of Osteopathic Medicine.
New York
MICHAEL FOTI, DO
The AOF and the New York State Osteopathic Medical Society (NYSOMS) are excited to name Michael Foti, DO, the 2024 New York State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Michael Foti is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine and the Standardized Patient Program Coordinator at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine (TouroCOM) in Middletown, New York. In this role, Dr. Foti is responsible for overseeing the Standardized Patient program, managing recruitment and training of standardized patient actors, and coordinating the program’s assessment processes. Additionally, he serves as an Adjunct Faculty member in the Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine Department, where he leads first-year Osteopathic medical students in laboratory sessions, demonstrating diagnostic techniques and Osteopathic Manipulative Treatments (OMT).
Prior to joining TouroCOM, Dr. Foti was an Assistant Professor at NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he also served as Associate Course Director for the Foundations of Osteopathic Medicine curriculum.
Dr. Foti completed his Internal Medicine residency at Yale-New Haven Health at Greenwich Hospital, where he received the Resident Physician Patient Experience Award in both 2021 and 2022. He earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine.
North Carolina
SHAWN HAMM, DO, MPH
The AOF and the North Carolina Osteopathic Medical Association (NCOMA) are excited to name Shawn Hamm, DO, the 2024 North Carolina State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Shawn M. Hamm currently serves as the Medical Director at the Burke County Health Department in Morganton, North Carolina. In this role, he oversees clinical operations and provides support for public health programs. He also supervises Advanced Practice Providers and leads the Burke Street Medicine Team, which provides care to underserved populations. Additionally, Dr. Hamm is a Family Medicine Physician with UNC Health Blue Ridge, where he focuses on quality and population health initiatives, and serves as a physician liaison for immunizations and other state health programs.
Dr. Hamm’s commitment to education is evident through his role as an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Family Medicine at Campbell University’s Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine. He oversees clinical rotations in family medicine, pediatrics, and public health.
Dr. Hamm earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2018, where he also served as Student Government Association President. He holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) from Florida State University.
Ohio
SEAN MATTHEW JOHNSON, DO
The AOF and the Ohio Osteopathic Association (OOA) are excited to name Sean Matthew Johnson, DO, the 2024 Ohio State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Sean Matthew Johnson is a practicing family medicine physician with the Kettering Physician Network in Tipp City, Ohio. In this role, he delivers comprehensive primary care to patients and also serves as a Preceptor for the Soin Family Medicine Residency Program, where he mentors and educates future family physicians. Additionally, Dr. Johnson is an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, a position that allows him to actively contribute to medical education.
Dr. Johnson is deeply involved in leadership roles within the Osteopathic community, serving as a delegate for both the Ohio Osteopathic Association and the American Osteopathic Association House of Delegates. His commitment to health policy and advocacy is evident through his participation in various committees, including the ACOFP Federal Legislation and Advocacy Committee.
Dr. Johnson earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) Carolinas. He is currently pursuing a Master of Public Health degree at Yale University.
Oregon
CALEB HENTGES, DO
The AOF and the Oregon Osteopathic Association (OOA) are excited to name Caleb Hentges, DO, the 2024 Oregon State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Caleb Hentges is currently a General Pediatrician at Physicians Medical Center, where he has been practicing since October 2023. Prior to this role, he served as a General Pediatrician with Cherokee Nation Health Services and as an Adjunct Faculty member at Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, contributing to medical education and mentoring students in pediatrics.
Dr. Hentges completed his residency in pediatrics at the Oklahoma State University Medical Center and the University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine. During his residency, he was actively involved in pediatric curriculum development and recruitment efforts, highlighting his leadership and commitment to advancing pediatric care.
Dr. Hentges earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Midwestern University’s Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine (AZCOM) in 2018, where he also served as Student Government Association President.
South Carolina
RIANNA KONDAVEETI, DO
The AOF and the South Carolina Osteopathic Medical Association (SCOMA) are excited to name Rianna Kondaveeti, DO, the 2024 South Carolina State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Rianna Kondaveeti is currently a Family Medicine Medical Education Faculty member at the Center for Family Medicine in Chesnee, South Carolina, where she has been practicing since June 2020. In this role, she is responsible for training and mentoring medical residents while integrating Osteopathic principles into family medicine. Dr. Kondaveeti also serves as an Assistant Professor and Adjunct Faculty at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) Carolinas, contributing to the academic development of future physicians.
Additionally, she works as a PRN Hospitalist and provides psychiatric services coverage at Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System.
Her dedication to lifestyle medicine has earned her board certification as a Diplomate of the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine, further reflecting her commitment to holistic and preventive patient care. Dr. Kondaveeti earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Bradenton, Florida.
Texas
DANTE PAREDES, DO
The AOF and the Texas Osteopathic Medical Association (TOMA) are excited to name Dante Paredes, DO, the 2024 Texas State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Dante Paredes is an Assistant Professor of Family Medicine at the University of North Texas Health Science Center, where he also serves as Core Faculty for the Family Medicine and Osteopathic Neuromuscular Medicine Residency programs at Medical City Fort Worth. In this role, Dr. Paredes is involved in teaching, mentoring, and supervising medical students, residents, and advanced practice providers. His clinical expertise spans family medicine, Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), and metabolic medicine, with a particular focus on reversing metabolic syndrome through diet and lifestyle interventions.
In addition to his academic duties, Dr. Paredes serves as the Associate Medical Director of Metabolic Medicine at UNT Health Science Center, where he oversees programs aimed at improving patient outcomes through metabolic health interventions.
Dr. Paredes earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his residency training in Family Medicine and a fellowship in Neuromuscular Medicine/OMM at the University of North Texas Health Science Center.
Wisconsin
DANIEL KNAPP, DO
The AOF and the Wisconsin Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons (WAOPS) are excited to name Daniel Knapp, DO, the 2024 Wisconsin State Emerging Leader.
Dr. Daniel Knapp is currently a Vascular and Interventional Radiologist with Wisconsin Radiology Specialists, where he has been practicing since 2019. In this role, Dr. Knapp specializes in minimally invasive, image-guided procedures to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. His expertise in both diagnostic and interventional radiology makes him a valuable asset to his practice, where he provides cutting-edge care to patients across multiple hospital systems in Wisconsin.
Before joining Wisconsin Radiology Specialists, Dr. Knapp worked as a Staff Diagnostic Radiologist at X-Ray Associates of Port Huron in Michigan. He also served as a Clinical Associate Professor at Michigan State University, where he was actively involved in teaching and mentoring radiology residents. His leadership during residency, including being named Chief Resident and Radiology Resident of the Year, reflects his dedication to both education and clinical excellence.
Dr. Knapp completed his fellowship in Vascular and Interventional Radiology at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, following a diagnostic radiology residency at Michigan State University. He earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine.
