Congratulations again to all of our ACOFP student chapter presidents. As you go forth with your presidency, I wanted to give some advice from prominent osteopathic leaders and myself as the current National Student Executive Board president.
Leadership in osteopathic medicine is a journey shaped by passion, commitment, and a deep desire to make a difference. Your role is not just about holding a title, but about making an impact that resonates within your community and beyond. Here is some wisdom shared by prominent osteopathic family physician leaders that can offer valuable insights to guide you.
Nicole H. Bixler, DO, MBA, FACOFP dist., who served as ACOFP president from 2020 to 2022, reminds us that leadership is not about the title but about achieving goals that improve the organization. She emphasizes that “a great leader does not necessarily set out to lead—but rather to make a difference with passion and commitment.” As student chapter presidents, your focus should be on the collective goals of your members, fostering an environment where others are encouraged to step into leadership roles themselves. This perspective from Dr. Bixler highlights the importance of inclusivity and collaboration, reminding us that leadership is not a solitary path but a collective journey.
Saroj Misra, DO, FAAFP, FACOFP dist., our current ACOFP Governor, offers practical advice for those stepping into leadership roles. “If you understand and respect the basics, you’ll make better choices when you do have time to lead.” This advice is particularly relevant as you navigate the challenges of your presidency. Understanding the fundamentals of your role and the needs of those you lead will enable you to make informed decisions that benefit your chapter. Dr. Misra and I also encourage you leaders to say “yes” to opportunities and to nurture the relationships that support your leadership. Celebrating successes and acknowledging the contributions of others are key elements in building a supportive and motivated team.
The importance of humility and listening is an understated leadership philosophy of osteopathic leaders. Thomas N. Told, DO, FACOFP dist., our 2006–2007 ACOFP president, shares a simple yet profound principle: “It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.” In the pursuit of leadership, it is crucial to maintain humility and empathy. Dr. Told also emphasizes the value of listening, advising leaders to “make it a habit to listen and understand before commenting.” This approach fosters an environment of trust and respect, where the voices of all members are heard and valued. As student chapter presidents, embracing this philosophy will help you lead with compassion and insight, ensuring that your decisions are guided by the needs of your members.
David J. Park, DO, FAAFP, FACOFP dist., the 2023–2024 ACOFP president, offers advice on the broader purpose of leadership, stating, “Leadership is a journey that’s about building a legacy that extends beyond your own successes—it’s about serving, inspiring, and developing others with authenticity.” As you begin your presidency, think about the legacy you want to leave behind. Leadership is not just about the achievements you accumulate, but about the impact you have on others and the inspiration you provide for future leaders. Dr. Park also highlights the importance of engagement, noting that “the first step in leadership is participation and engagement.” Active involvement in your chapter and community is essential to building a strong foundation for your leadership journey.
As you prepare for your upcoming presidency, take these lessons to heart. Your role as a leader is not just about guiding your chapter but about fostering a culture of growth, collaboration, and service. By leading with passion, humility, and a commitment to others, you will not only achieve your goals but also inspire our next generation of osteopathic leaders with future OMSI&II. So, embrace it with the knowledge that your impact extends far beyond your time in office, shaping the future of our field and your school years to come.
Keep up the good work everyone,
George Tong Yang, OMS-IV, MPH
National Student Executive Board | 2024–2025 President
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