The American Osteopathic Foundation is pleased to honor Nicole Peña, DO of California as the 2023 recipient of the AOF James M. Lally, DO National Emerging Leader Award.
Nicole Peña, DO is a dedicated and accomplished healthcare professional with a diverse educational background and a commitment to both clinical practice and education. Her impressive journey in the medical field is characterized by a wealth of experience and a passion for Osteopathic medicine.
Dr. Peña's clinical practice in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine and Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (NMM/OMM) has taken her to various healthcare settings, where she serves as an NMM/OMM Specialist. Her dedication to providing quality care and expertise in Osteopathic techniques has made her a valuable asset to the organizations she has worked with, including LifeLong Medical Care in Richmond, CA, Peninsula Osteopathy in Los Altos, CA, Solano County Health Services in Fairfield, CA, and Seek Optimal Health, P.C. in Vallejo, CA.
In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Peña has made significant contributions to medical education. She has been an integral part of Touro University CA - College of Osteopathic Medicine since 2016, where she serves as an Associate Professor. Notably, she has held the position of Chair of the OMM Department since 2021, demonstrating her leadership and commitment to osteopathic medical education.
"Her dedication to the Osteopathic medical community, her students and her patients is evident in the quality of care she provides, as well as the positive impact she has made on their lives,” said Holly Macriss, Executive Director, Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons of California. “Through this commitment, Dr. Peña truly shines among all Osteopathic Physicians."
A 2013 graduate of Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine (TUCOM-Harlem), Dr. Peña served as a Resident Physician in OMM/NMM at St. Barnabas Hospital in the Bronx, NY, and was an OPP Teaching Instructor and Chief Resident at NYIT-COM in Old Westbury, NY. She is a board-certified specialist in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine and Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine.
About the Award:
Dr. James M. Lally, DO, known for his exemplary leadership and generous spirit, continues to dedicate his career to practicing the philosophy and tenants of the Osteopathic profession. Through this service, he has made a significant impact locally, nationally, and internationally. The National Emerging Leader award, given in Dr. Lally’s name, serves to honor an outstanding new Osteopathic physician in practice whose leadership inspires others, whose noticeable accomplishments motivate those around them, and whose medical knowledge, combined with patient empathy enriches the lives of those they serve.
