Earlier this month, Alyssa and I traveled to the West Coast — blog post here. While we had fun in the San Diego sun, we were really there because my sister is the winner of the 2018 AOF LEAD Scholar Award. She was honored at the American Osteopathic Foundation's 2018 Honors Gala on October 5.
The AOF LEAD Scholar Award is funded by Karen J. Nichols, DO, and recognizes outstanding osteopathic medical students whose Leadership, Excellence, Achievement, and Dedication are proven in the classroom and community.
For those who don't know, my sister is a fourth-year medical student at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine-Dublin. As a leader, she has worked to promote mental health awareness, represent medical student perspectives at national physician meetings and advocate for the unique value of osteopathic medicine. She has served terms as a National Public Relations Representative on the Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents and as President of the OU-HCOM Student Government Association.
Alyssa feels particularly driven to help increase diversity in health care teams, especially women in leadership positions. "By saying 'yes' to leadership opportunities, celebrating the successes of others, and mentorship of the next generation of physicians, I hope to contribute to the breaking down of barriers for minorities in the medical field," she says. She also prioritizes service, making time to give back to her community and fellow students.
"Throughout my medical school career, one of my greatest pleasures has been being a mentor for the next generation of physicians. It reenergizes me and sparks the interest of those who will be the bright, future leaders of our profession."
Alyssa volunteers with the Make-a-Wish Foundation, local community garden, and Ronald McDonald House. Her prior awards have included OU-HCOM's Outstanding Group Leadership Award and Celebrating Women's Female Leadership Award.
"Being a servant leader, in my opinion, is a trait that holds the most value, as it can and will radiate into almost all other facets of life," says OU-HCOM Vice-Dean Wayne R. Carlsen, DO. "Alyssa epitomizes the words servant leader."
As a proud sister, I only have four words to say: "You go, Glen Coco!"
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