Marian University’s Tom and Julie Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine (MU-WCOM) has selected fourth-year student Payton Sparks, OMS IV, as its 2025 Student Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine of the Year (SDOY), a prestigious honor recognizing osteopathic medical students who exemplify leadership, service, professionalism, and dedication to the osteopathic philosophy.
Presented annually by the Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents (COSGP), a council of the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM), the Student DO of the Year Award honors students who consistently go above and beyond the expectations of the osteopathic medical profession. Each college of osteopathic medicine across the nation selects one student recipient, who then advances for consideration for the National SDOY Award.
Sparks was selected as MU-WCOM’s SDOY recipient for his outstanding leadership, a deep commitment to community service, dedication to the osteopathic profession, and unwavering professionalism throughout his medical education. As a fourth-year student, Sparks has demonstrated a strong embodiment of the osteopathic philosophy—treating patients holistically, valuing service to others, and leading with compassion and integrity.
“Receiving the Student Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine of the Year award is a tremendous honor,” said Sparks. “I’m grateful to my mentors, classmates, and the Marian’s Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine community for shaping me into the physician I aspire to be.”
As MU-WCOM’s SDOY recipient, Sparks will advance for consideration for the National Student Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine of the Year Award. The national honoree will be announced at the AACOM Annual Meeting in April and will receive a monetary award, with details to be announced by AACOM at a later date.
Sparks’ recognition reflects the Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine’s mission to educate physicians who lead through service, uphold the values of the osteopathic profession, and make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of others.