About AOA Resident Ambassadors
The AOA’s Resident Ambassador Program is designed to strengthen the relationship between specialty certifying boards and residency programs, nurture certification champions and enhance communications throughout the osteopathic profession. Residents in training provide the vital voice of our specialties’ future.
Program overview
AOA Board Certification appreciates and encourages input from physicians in training. The Resident Ambassador Program assists boards by providing resident perspectives on key activities, such as:
- Communication about In-Service Examinations (ISEs)
- Certification pathways, including Early Entry, Initial Certification and subspecialty certification/OMT designation
- Digital resources and website user experience
Nominee criteria
Nominees should be residents at the PGY-2 level and above at the start of their term who demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, professionalism, timeliness and the ability to follow direction. Candidates must also agree to comply with applicable conflict of interest, confidentiality and volunteer policies.
Program goals
The program aims to promote awareness and increase understanding of the benefits of board certification among trainees. By offering educational materials and structured support in addition to fostering an active network of ambassadors, the initiative motivates residents to pursue and complete board certification while creating a lasting culture around lifelong learning.
Learn more about each specialty board’s program below.