Meet Wetzel Scholar – Caleb Liles

Name: Caleb Liles

COM: KCOM

Graduation Year: 2026

Hometown: Maryville, MO

Number of Years in the Scholar

Program: 2nd year

How did you first become aware of the Wetzel Scholar Program?

• • I first became aware of the Wetzel Scholar Program when I joined the ATSU-MAOPS chapter at the beginning of my second year of medical school. It was through that involvement that I began learning more about the opportunities MAOPS offers to students, including the Wetzel Scholars.

Why were you interested in becoming a Wetzel Scholar?

• •  My interest in the Wetzel Scholar Program grew after I became involved with MAOPS and attended the Missouri Osteopathic Annual Conference for the first time. There, I connected with many osteopathic physicians and students who were passionate about advocacy and leadership within the profession. I was drawn to the opportunity to learn how to effectively advocate for the osteopathic profession, both at the state and national level. I believed the program would expand my understanding of advocacy and help build lasting connections with like-minded peers and mentors — and it has done exactly that.

To date, what have you enjoyed the most about your Wetzel Scholar experience?

• • One of the most rewarding experiences has been attending the AOA House of Delegates, where I had the opportunity to learn about policymaking on a national scale. I also enjoyed presenting the Wetzel Scholar Program to the executive directors of other state osteopathic associations, which helped me grow as a leader and representative of the program.

What personal goals do you have that you believe the Scholar Program will help you achieve?

• • • My goal is to become a general surgeon practicing in a rural community while remaining actively engaged in advocacy for the osteopathic profession. The
      Wetzel Scholar Program has been instrumental in helping me pursue this path — from strengthening my advocacy skills to connecting me with physicians and students who share similar goals. Through these experiences, I’ve gained valuable insight into how to balance clinical practice with professional leadership and service.

Tell us about a couple of influential personal relationships you’ve developed
through the Scholar Program and/or MAOPS involvement.

• • I’ve developed relationships with several physicians who I now feel comfortable reaching out to for advice on medical education, residency, and professional development. One of the most impactful relationships has been with my mentor, Dr. Tannehill. I initially connected with him through shadowing and later asked him to be my official mentor for the Wetzel Scholars Program. We’ve had countless conversations — ranging from surgical training and advocacy efforts to camping and fishing in Wyoming. His guidance has been incredibly valuable both professionally and personally.

What has surprised you the most about MAOPS since becoming involved?

• • What has surprised me most is both the breadth of MAOPS’ impact and its openness to student involvement. MAOPS plays a significant role in shaping the future of the osteopathic profession in Missouri and beyond, and yet they are always eager to include students in meaningful ways. Their commitment to mentorship and leadership development is truly impressive.

Tell us something surprising/interesting about you.

• • I started brewing my own beer about a year ago while doing a medical education fellowship between my second and third years of medical school. I enjoy experimenting with different styles and ingredients, and it’s a great way to share something unique with friends and family.