As we approach spring and prepare for the Annual Spring Meeting in Orlando, I wanted to provide you with an update on the AOAO Foundation’s current activities and projects.
First, we hope you will join us for a Magical Happy Hour during the Exhibitors’ Reception at the Annual Spring Meeting. On Friday, April 12 from 5:30-7:00 p.m., a special area will be set up in the Exhibit Hall where professional photos may be taken with your favorite Disney characters for a donation to the Foundation. This will be a fun opportunity for adults and children, while supporting research and grants for residents.
I am pleased to announce that in our first year, we received three grant applications. The Foundation’s Board of Directors feel that if we as a profession can expand our presence in the research arena, we will be able to attract further funding from industry. Our hope is that this grant is just the beginning of providing significant funding to Osteopathic Orthopedic research.
The Foundation will also begin to recognize young leaders in our profession by way of two new awards. During the Annual Fall Meeting, the Foundation will present an Emerging Leader Award and Student of the Year Award to AOAO members who meet the criteria for selection. The Outstanding Resident of the Year award (sponsored by AOAO and the American Osteopathic Foundation) will be given as well. The Foundation hopes to work with the AOF on additional projects in the future.
I hope to see many of you in Orlando for what should be a fun and educational weekend.
