ACOS

Behind every great surgeon is a mentor who helped guide the way. The ACOS community is comprised of experienced surgeons who are passionate about teaching, supporting, and lifting up the next generation. Through our Mentor Match Program, students and residents can connect one-on-one with osteopathic surgeons who are eager to share their knowledge, advice, and real-world experience. Whether you're just starting out or refining your path, you don’t have to do it alone. Join the Mentor Match Program and start building connections that shape your future. Learn more: community.facos.org/mentoring

Your Match reflects years of dedication, discipline, and perseverance, and we are excited to support you as you continue your surgical training. Make sure to continue your ACOS membership as a resident member. Your resident membership is on us! As part of the ACOS community of more than 7,000 surgeons, residents, and medical students, your membership brings: • Leadership opportunities and national committees • The ACOS Mentor Match program • Peer-reviewed publishing through ACOS on Cureus • Resident scholarships and national awards • Networking at the ACOS Annual Clinical Assembly and other events • Reduced-cost educational programming • A nationwide online community of surgical trainees • Advocacy representing osteopathic surgeons in Washington • Member news and updates that keep you connected Continue your next chapter with the support of your osteopathic surgical community. Join at facos.org/ResidentJoin

To our newly matched medical students, welcome to the osteopathic surgical family! As you begin your residency journey, know that the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons is here for you every step of the way. From mentorship and research opportunities to lifelong professional support, you are part of a community that believes in lifting each other up. This is not just a job, it is a calling. Within ACOS, you will find a network committed to helping you grow, succeed, and lead. Welcome to the profession. Welcome to the family. 💙 #match2026 #acos #futuresurgeon #thematch #ACOSMATCHDAY

Congratulations to all the medical students who have officially matched! After years of hard work, longs nights and unwavering dedication, you have reached an incredible milestone. Your journey is just beginning! #match2026 #acos #futuresurgeon #thematch

Even in surgery, the osteopathic philosophy of treating the whole patient and building human connection is always present. Small gestures, like a reassuring hand or a moment of humor, can make a big impact on patient care. What’s the most meaningful lesson you’ve learned during a clinical rotation? 🩺

Dr. Lam continues his nationwide outreach—connecting with students, presenting on plastic surgery, and offering a firsthand perspective on osteopathic surgical careers. Here’s a look at his recent visits: 📍 Duquesne University College of Osteopathic Medicine – Pittsburgh, PA A highly collegial visit that that began with dinner alongside student doctor Nicolas Ritcheson and Dr. Raye Budway, clinical professor in surgery. The visit included time with students, faculty, and leadership. Dean John Kaufman showcased a well-established, efficiently run program with innovative features like virtual reality anatomy learning. Students highlighted a strong, positive experience—despite Pittsburgh’s winter chill. 📍 Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine – Melbourne, FL A smaller, close-knit campus offering a supportive and student-centered environment with strong access to faculty. Dean Doris Newman emphasized continued OMT training throughout clinical years. Students described the culture as collaborative, empowering, and compassionate. Dr. Lam connected closely with students during his visit, with support from student doctor Patricia Martin. 📍 Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine – Stratford, NJ A well-established program where students demonstrate strong direction through mentorship, research, and collaboration. Known for leadership, engagement, and excellence, students stood out for their preparedness and thoughtful questions. Dr. Lam’s visit was coordinated with the support of Student Doctor Rosenio Medenilla.

@VincyMathew5 Congratulations!!

I’m going to be a Neurosurgeon!!! Deepest thanks to everyone who has supported me in this journey in every way possible, grateful is an understatement!

Congratulations Will!!

Congratulations Allie!! We are so proud of you and can't wait to follow your journey as a Neurosurgeon! #Match2026 #OsteopathicSurgery #neurosurgery #ACOS

@PCOMeducation Congratulations!!!

Future urologic surgeon Iman Elkhashab (DO ’26) has matched into a urological surgery residency at Penn Medicine. Click the link to learn about her journey! tinyurl.com/bdf2xfs2

@s_estherjohnson @TheNRMP Congratulations!!

I’M GOING TO BE A NEUROSURGEON!!! ✨ Endlessly thankful to my village of mentors, friends & family - I couldn’t have done this without them. #Match2026 @TheNRMP

As we celebrate #Match2026, we’re honored to share a message from Valerie Sheridan, CEO of @ACOSurgeons 🎉 Her words recognize the hard work behind this milestone and celebrate the exciting road ahead for the next generation of DOs. Congratulations!

How do surgeons find balance in a demanding profession? ACOS member, Dr. Joel Abbott shares how he stays grounded while navigating the realities of surgical life. Balance isn’t something I’ve perfected—it’s something I work at every day. The demands of surgery, long hours, and being present for patients are real, but I’ve learned that showing up fully at work requires being intentional about life outside of it. I protect time for my family and close friends, because they are the reason I am a surgeon in the first place. Travel has become one of my resets—whether it’s a quick getaway or a longer break, stepping into a new environment helps me return refreshed and focused. Being based near the Las Vegas Strip sometimes allows balance to look like a great meal, a show, or simply soaking in the energy of the city. During the hard times, I swear by a few non-negotiables: staying connected to my people, exercise, and allowing myself to unplug when I can. I’ve learned that burnout doesn’t come from working hard—it comes from never recharging. Even small routines, like a workout before a long day or a quiet moment to reflect, make a difference. I remind myself that medicine is a marathon, not a sprint, and longevity in this field depends on taking care of yourself as intentionally as you take care of your patients. Life is full, demanding, and sometimes chaotic—but making space for joy, travel, laughter, and meaningful connection is what keeps me steady and moving forward. How do you recharge?

Final-year residents: this is your moment. You’ve worked hard to get here. Your work, leadership, and dedication deserve recognition Apply for the ACOS Resident Achievement Award by June 1. Learn more and apply at facos.org/ResAwards

Leadership, collaboration, and planning for the future. The ACOS Board of Governors met March 7–8 at ACOS headquarters in Alexandria, VA to discuss strategic priorities, policy updates, preparations for the 2027 Centennial Celebration and so much more! Led by President Nelayda Fonte, DO, FACOS, DFACOS, the Board continues its work to strengthen the College and support the next generation of osteopathic surgeons.

🌍 Osteopathic Surgery on the Global Stage Leaders in osteopathic surgery recently represented the profession at the 87th Annual Surgical Update hosted by the @ICSUSS alongside the 49th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Neurological and Orthopaedic Surgeons in Omaha. ACOS President Dr. Nelayda Fonte attended the meeting and joined an outstanding panel highlighting the impact of osteopathic surgeons in the international surgical community. Panelists included Drs. Anthony Dardano, Hiren Patel, Dan Miulli, and Eric Miller. Together, they contributed valuable perspectives and expertise to the discussion. One of the highlights of the meeting was an all-DO panel featuring Drs. Miller, Dardano, and Fonte, underscoring the growing presence of osteopathic physicians in global surgical dialogue. Dr. Fonte also connected with Dr. Dardano, President-Elect of the International College of Surgeons, U.S. Section. The moment reflects continued collaboration between international surgical leadership and the osteopathic community. This year’s conference theme, “International Surgery: Flattening the World of Surgery,” brought together surgeons from around the world to exchange ideas, share innovations, and collaborate on advancing patient care globally.

"Evaluating Laparoscopic Simulation Training for Preclinical Osteopathic Medical Students" Background Pre-clinical education significantly influences the professional development of future physicians. Early exposure to laparoscopic techniques can help medical students explore surgical interests and develop skills for clerkships and future careers. Methods Participants performed three LAPARO simulation modules: Beads, Cones, and Pegs. Their best times from two attempts each in February and May 2024 were recorded. Attempts exceeding four minutes were classified as failures. Participants attended multiple practice sessions between assessments. Read more: cureus.com/articles/40517…

The highest honor. The mark of a master surgeon. As we approach nearly a century of excellence, the DFACOS designation recognizes Fellows who have made exceptional contributions to ACOS and the profession. Applications close March 31. Learn more: facos.org/DFACOS #ACOS #DFACOS #DistinguishedFellow #OsteopathicSurgery #Centennial

This International Women's Day, we honor Alison Ann Clarey, D.O., FACOS - a trailblazing surgeon, educator, and leader who paved the way for women in surgery. In 1977, she became Dayton, Ohio’s first female surgeon and the first female resident at Grandview Hospital, later founding its bariatric surgery program. As Program Director of the General Surgery Residency, she mentored generations of surgeons, earning respect through her excellence in the OR. Dr. Clarey extended her care beyond borders, providing free surgical care locally and volunteering in Sierra Leone, Madagascar, Romania, and Guatemala, earning her the ACOS Humanitarian Award. She made history as the first woman President of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons (ACOS) in 2007 and led the Ohio Osteopathic Association as President during its centennial year. In recognition of her exceptional leadership and contributions to the profession, she received the ACOS Orel F. Martin Medal in 2010. Dr. Clarey passed in 2011 after a courageous battle with breast cancer, through her legacy lives on. As ACOS celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2027 and the 20th anniversary of Dr. Clarey’s historic presidency, we reflect on the influence of her mentorship, leadership, and dedication which continues to be felt across the profession today. Take a look through some of Dr. Clarey's incredible history from ACOS News.