Welcome to the
AOA Mentor Recognition Program

The AOA Mentor Recognition Program was developed in association with the Pfizer Medical Humanities Initiative to honor DOs who help shape the future of the osteopathic medical profession through their involvement with students and young physicians. Through their service, mentors bring a sense of pride to the profession and promote the art and science of osteopathic medicine. Each year at the AOA's Annual Convention & Scientific Seminar the Mentor of the Year finalists are honored. A commemorative and monetary award will be presented to the Mentor of the Year at the Opening Session of the Convention. This program enables DOs to both nominate a mentor that has had a profound impact on their career or to apply to become a mentor to an aspiring physician that is seeking career guidance from an experienced DO. Nominations may be submitted online or through the mail. Nominations are accepted from students, interns, residents, DOs and from AOA Affiliates.

How do I nominate a mentor?

Nominations can be submitted online through this Web site. Simply fill out the application and submit it online. The Mentor Planning Committee will initially review the nominations to ensure that all of the pertinent information is completed.

Is it Possible to Submit a Paper Application by Fax or Mail rather than via this Web site?

Yes. Follow the link to the application form, print and complete. Mail the application to the following address:
AOA Department of Membership
Attn: Chaunessie Baggett
Manager, Member Service Center & Special Projects
142 E. Ontario
Chicago, IL 60611

What are the criteria used for the selection process?

In addition to recognition elements, the following specific criteria will be used:

1. The mentor fosters the long-term development from mentee to DO colleague, encouraging mentees to develop individual talents and strengths as an advisor and guide.
2. The mentor facilitates mentees in acquiring the skills and resources needed to succeed as scholars and professionals.
3. The mentor acts as an advocate and leader in professional matters, such as presentation of research findings, post-doctoral options and job placement and practice development.
4. The mentor demonstrates respect and a sincere and active interest in the well being of mentees.
5. The mentor is an AOA member in good standing.

What is the timeline for the program?

Nomination Deadline:
End of the HOD meeting

The Mentor of the Year Award will be on display at the House of Delegates meeting, along with mentor stories previously submitted.

Last week in July:
AOA staff will gather and collate each of the nominations and distribute them to the divisional and specialty groups and student groups.

August:
Deadline to receive “society-backed” nominees from affiliates and students groups. Nominations will be sent to the Mentor Selection Committee.

September:
Notification of the mentor finalists and invitation along with instructions to attend the reception and the opening ceremony will be sent to the nominees.

Invitations to all nominees to attend the Mentor Recognition Reception and Opening Ceremony and notification of induction into the Mentor Hall of Fame.

How does an AOA affiliate participate?

In the initial phase of the nomination process, affiliates are asked to nominate one or several qualified DOs who are members of their organization following the criteria provided. To simplify the nomination process, applications may be submitted online. In the second phase of the nomination process, all the nominees from affiliates, as well as individual nominations, will be separated into each of the following categories: state of residency, specialty and college of osteopathic medicine from which they graduated. Executive directors will receive all nominees pertaining to their organization to evaluate and make one“society-backed” recommendation for the Mentor of the Year. This recommendation will be submitted to the Mentor of the Year Selection Committee for consideration.

How do I Become a Mentor?

Follow this link to the Mentor Exchange.