The AOF proudly recognizes Alexander Golden as the recipient of the 2023 Jeffrey S. Grove, DO, LGBTQ+ Pride Scholarship.

Alexander, currently a fourth-year medical student at the University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine (UIWSOM), has always aimed high, with a determination to make a lasting impact in both his personal and professional life. He gradually ascended to the national stage, earning recognition along the way. Reflecting on his journey, Alexander notes, "When I was appointed as the National Diversity Chair for the Council of Student Government Osteopathic Presidents in May 2022, I was able to extend the reach of my diversity efforts on a national scale." Despite this significant achievement, he remains grounded and focused on his immediate goals—clinical growth and community service.

“My commitment to addressing health equity through my leadership positions and involvement in various organizations has allowed me to develop the skills necessary to be an effective advocate for promoting DEI in healthcare.” Says Alexander. “As a future physician, I am committed to promoting health equity and inclusion for all my patients.”

Alexander has contributed to numerous publications, including “Augmenting LGBTQ+ and minority identities within medical school and residency training” published in Harvard Public Health Review. He’s also presented at the Texas Osteopathic Medical Association and the Medical Student Pride Alliance conferences on the topic of Safe Space Training. His accolades include being nominated for UIWSOM's Student DO of the Year, receiving the Silver Award for Translating Osteopathic Understanding into Community Health, and being a member of UIWSOM Pride in Practice student organization.

Established by Jeffrey Grove, DO, the American Osteopathic Foundation’s LGBTQ+ Pride Educational Scholarship will be awarded annually to an Osteopathic medical student working to address the unique healthcare needs of the LGBTQ+ community and prevent negative health outcomes for LGBTQ+ people.

Dr. Grove is the founder and inspiration behind the AOF’s recently launched LGBTQ+ Health Equity & Inclusion Initiative, which strives to better understand and address the healthcare needs of the LGBTQ+ community through educational scholarships, CME training, and diversity-enriching programs.