Wetzel Scholars and Fellows
The MAOPS Wetzel Scholar and Fellow Programs are open to students (Scholars) and postgraduate (Fellows) members of MAOPS who currently intend to practice in Missouri upon completion of training.
Both programs are designed to:
1). Develop leadership skills
2.) Expand professional networks
3.) Promote leadership in MAOPS and in organized medicine.
Each program has a core curriculum that must be completed in a designated time period. Upon completion of the program, successful Scholars and Fellows receive a scholarship to assist with educational expenses. You can learn more about each program, including how to apply, below.
Any questions regarding the Scholar or Fellowship program can be directed to MAOPS Executive Director, Brian Bowles.
Wetzel Scholar Program
Apply Here
First, second, and/or third year osteopathic medicine students planning to practice in Missouri are eligible for the Wetzel Scholar Program.
Application Window
October 1 – February 1 with decisions made in March.
Award
- $3,000, renewable annually awarded upon completion of required activities.
- Lodging and registration at the Missouri Osteopathic Annual Convention.
- Expenses paid for approved program responsibilities.
- Interested Scholars successfully completing all requirements will be encouraged to apply for a Wetzel Fellowship during postgraduate training.
Application Process
- Completion of the standard Wetzel Scholar application by February 1.
- Submission of at least one letter of recommendation.
- Finalist(s) will be interviewed by a member(s) of the MAOPS Leadership Development Committee (LDC).
⇒ Check out our 10 Tips for a Successful Wetzel Scholar Application!
Annual Requirement Checklist
- OMS I through III may apply
- Intent to practice in Missouri upon completion of postgraduate training.
- Desire to actively participate in organized medicine.
- Demonstrated leadership ability/skills and commitment to the profession and continued development of leadership skills.
- Completion of required Scholar activities (reasonable expenses to be covered by MAOPS)
⇒ Click HERE to review a sample of the annual requirements.
Renewal Process (for renewing Scholars only)
- Completion of all requirements in previous year.
- Notification of Leadership Development Committee by February 1 annually.
Wetzel Fellowship Program
Apply Here
Postgraduate MAOPS members who plan to practice in Missouri are eligible for the Wetzel Fellowship Program.
Application Window
Applications can be submitted from October 1 – February 1 annually. Applications are reviewed and interviews of finalist occur in March.
Award
- All expenses, within reason, will be paid for activities related to completion of the Wetzel Fellowship.
- $5,000 upon completion of the Wetzel Fellowship requirements and upon establishment of permanent, full-time practice in the state of Missouri.
- Wetzel Fellows will receive a plaque commemorating their achievement.
- Wetzel Fellows will be recognized on a plaque at the MAOPS Central Office upon completion of the Wetzel Fellowship Program.
Application Process
- Completion of the standard Wetzel Fellowship Application.
- Submission of two letters of recommendation with one being from their postgraduate program director
- MAOPS postgraduate membership is required (or student membership if an OMS IV).
- Interview with the MAOPS Scholar and Fellow Selection Team.
Annual Requirement Checklist
- Applicants should be osteopathic postgraduate physicians intending to practice in Missouri.
- Each Wetzel Fellow will have three years to complete the program requirements. However, discernible progress must be made each year once the program is started.
⇒ Click here to review a sample of the annual requirements.
Wetzel Scholars and Fellows at the 2026 Missouri Osteopathic Annual Conference
(Left to right): Ellie Cumpton (ATSU-KCOM), Shannon Buehre (ATSU-KCOM), Erin Martin (ATSU-KCOM), Samantha DeLuca (ATSU-KCOM), Zenobia Tucker (KCU-Joplin), Tessa Tolen, DO, and Hannah Newland, DO.